2017-09-16 Sat

Heritage Auctions offered the Golden Gate Collection of Roman Gold Aurei at the World and Ancient Coins Platinum Night sale that took place on 3rd August at ANA World’s Fair of Money auctions. 40 coins were issued during the Roman Imperial period from A.D. 60 to 160 when the Empire reached its peak in terms of territory, economics, and art.

An evenly circulated gold aureus of Nero minted in Rome between 65 and 68, graded Choice Fine by NGC Ancients with 5/5 strike and 3/5 surfaces was sold for $2,350.

It was one of three well-known gold pieces of Nero. Experts state that these coins are found very commonly in gold hoards of the first and second centuries. They were issued in large numbers after Nero’s monetary debasement of circa 63-64. Earlier gold aurei were recalled and melted while new low-weight coins were produced.

While grading the strike of a coin, the quality of the planchet, the state of the dies and the strike, centering is considered. The surface rating is given on the basis of aspects like corrosion and cleaning.