Ancient coin collectors often think US collectors care far too much about tiny differences in design, elevating prices of some minor varieties to great heights. But it seems we are not entirely immune from the disease. In the recent Leu auction there was a Postumus with Serapis reverse "1 of only 9 examples known" https://www.leunumismatik.com/en/lot/3/344 that went for 2,200 euros plus fees. We already had a thread about details making a difference: https://www.cointalk.com/threads/postumus-and-liberty.288869/#post-2610835 which mentioned a different example of that type and the coin I mention next. The above type may be rare, but that makes two appearing recently. In case you don't actually visit the old thread, here is my similar example (which is apparently very different to the experts): My lowly coin has a transverse scepter, whereas the rarity has a vertical scepter. The rest is the almost the same. The have the same legends on both sides. Perhaps the most noticeable difference is my coin is in better condition. Nevertheless, I imagine mine to be worth less than 100 euros. I'm (still) amazed that a detail like scepter position can raise the price 2000 euros. Show us two coins that seem similar but have significantly different prices.
Here's mine, transverse scepter. I'm not sure if the difference between the vertical scepter and transverse scepter is worth 2,000 euros...
WOW! I'm totally amazed that a 'vertical scepter' position can realize such a incredible price difference. As far as I'm aware, I only have lower to higher grade examples of the same coins/devices and any expected price variations...but I'm looking forward to seeing what the CT gang will post.
It is surprising. I have seen many coins with little notes of differences but rarely do I see them worth having a premium. I guess the person likes their Postumus and wanted it no matter what.
