RARITIES ON OFFER IN MONACO

The eighth MDC Monaco coin auction takes place on 20 and 21 October in Monaco, bringing together 1,446 rare coins and medals from Ancient Greece and Rome, as well as royal, modern and world coins.

Highlights of the sale include a Roman Maxentius (306312) 4 Aurei medallion, commemorating the Temple of Venus and Rome restoration undated (c.308). One of only two known examples, the exceptional and extremely fine coin has a starting price of €250,000 (approximately £213,400). The Temple of Venus and Roma, depicted on the rare coin, is the largest temple in ancient Rome and was built under Emperor Hadrian between 121 and 141. Inaugurated in 135, damaged by fire in 307, it was restored under Maxentius. When the work was completed, there was a grand celebration and a commemorative series of coins were minted.

Another notable lot with a staggering starting price of almost £1.5 million is an Edward VIII £5 pattern proof of 1937. The coin is just one of three examples still thought to exist, as the auction catalogue explains: ‘The 200 or so dies prepared during 1936 were destroyed after his abdication. Only a few patterns of the £1 (sovereign), £2 and £5 remained. In addition to The Royal Mint coin, only two £5 coins are known. One is in the Tyrant collection and this coin. We also know that Edward VIII did not own any patterns bearing his likeness or name.’ The sale also boasts a selection of Louis XVI French coins, a number of Chinese rarities, and medals of Nicholas II of Russia. The auction will take place over two days, and will be shown live via the biddr.com website.

Find out more about the sale at: or-numismatique-monaco.com