Anyone have a good feel for the current market in Roman coins?

291fifth

I'm getting that darkside feeling again and may return to an interest of long ago, Roman Rupiblic and Roman Imperial coins. Having been out of the field since 1988 I have no current feel for the market. Any comments would be appreciated.

Tom

coachleonard

Just from my observation. roman coins had better be A. really sharp grade, or B. a really in demand ruler (Nero, Caligula, Otho,etc) to get any bids going at all. Either that, or they have to be sold in bulk. If they are bronzes in worn to average condition, and they're not in-demand rulers, I'm pretty certain nowdays I won't get anything close to what they should be worth. In fact, I have listed a Roman bronze provencial coin of Ceasar Augustus, quite worn but just identifiable, EIGHT TIMES at starting bids of $3 to $5. Haven't gotten a bid yet.

291fifth

HMMM? I wonder if the very high price of the reference books effectively drives collectors away from the series.

earlwbollinger

I suspect it is the numerous quantities of fakes and counterfiets.
Newer collectors can't tell the real from the fakes.
That'll effectively suppress the market a lot.