PTOLEMAIC EGYPT. Arsinoe II Philadelphos, Died 270/68 B.C. AV Mnaieion (Octodrachm/Oktadrachm) (27.77 gms), Alexandreia Mint, struck under Ptolemy VI and/or VIII ca. 204-116 B.C. NGC Ch MS, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 4/5. Svor-1499; SNG Cop-322. Obverse: Veiled head right, wearing stephanos and rams horn; lotus-tipped scepter in background, K to left; Reverse: Filleted double cornucopia, with grape bunches hanging at sides. Undoubtedly one of the most dazzling and exceptional examples of the type that this cataloger has ever seen, the present specimen offers immense luster and fresh originality shimmering throughout, all while the bust is featured in tremendously high relief. On the reverse, the strike is majestically centered, with all design elements entirely visible, and the concavity--<em>owing to the corresponding obverse relief</em>--allows for a glistening cartwheel brilliance as the coin is cradled back in ones hand. <strong>INCREDIBLY RARE</strong> and assured to generate a great deal of enthusiasm, as the quality seen here is of the highest difficulty to replicate. From the Collection of a Gentleman.
