Stack's Bowers & Ponterio
August 2019 ANA - Sess. A-C 14 & 16 Aug 2019
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VITELLIUS, A.D. 69. AR Denarius (3.31 gms), Rome Mint. NGC AU, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 4/5. Light Scratch.
RIC-107; RSC-72. Obverse: Laureate head right; Reverse: Vesta seated right on throne, holding patera and scepter. Likely one of the finest Vitellius denarii of the type, this immensely attractive piece offers an impressive cabinet tone and an exceedingly bold strike, especially on his imposing portrait. The strike on the reverse is nearly perfectly centered, and hints of light, even wear are evident only on the highest points. As noted in the details, a light graze across the upper part of the emperor's cheek--likely there since antiquity--is noted merely for completeness, as it in no way detracts from its mesmerizing appearance. Truly, a great rarity owing to its superlative quality and overall eye appeal.
From the Collection of Dr. James Eustace Bizzell, II.
RIC-107; RSC-72. Obverse: Laureate head right; Reverse: Vesta seated right on throne, holding patera and scepter. Likely one of the finest Vitellius denarii of the type, this immensely attractive piece offers an impressive cabinet tone and an exceedingly bold strike, especially on his imposing portrait. The strike on the reverse is nearly perfectly centered, and hints of light, even wear are evident only on the highest points. As noted in the details, a light graze across the upper part of the emperor's cheek--likely there since antiquity--is noted merely for completeness, as it in no way detracts from its mesmerizing appearance. Truly, a great rarity owing to its superlative quality and overall eye appeal.
From the Collection of Dr. James Eustace Bizzell, II.
Ex: Goldberg (6/2014) Lot #3127 (where it realized a hammer of $6,000 [!]).
Estimate: $2000.00- $3000.00