Rome, La Libreria dello Stato, 1945-1946. No. 311 of an edition of 400 numbered copies. 2 folio size volumes (14" or 36 cm):

Text volume - frontispiece, vii, 319 pages, with numerous plates, maps, photographs (many enlargements) and drawings of coins and other objects in the text, colophon page with information about edition. Top gilt, side and bottom pages uncut, as issued.

Plate volume - xi (key to the plates), fold-out map of Sicily, 66 loose photographic plates on heavy card stock  in folder. One of the most sumptuous numismatic publications ever produced. Text in Italian. Folio size, original purple cloth covers over very thick boards with gold colored stamped metal medallions on front, gilt spine titles. Very Fine condition. The original deluxe edition of this classic and extremely rare two volume work describing and illustrating many of the finest Sicilian Greek coins known. Exceptional quality of plates with unparallel array of coins included.

Condition:

Overall both volumes in very fine condition with all pages and all plates present. All pages clean and fresh. In our opinion this book did not see much of the use at all. No writings, no pencil marks, no ex libris stickers, no fingerprint marks at all. Stamped metal medallions on cover present. Binding very tight with strong hinges. Two small rips on the edge of the spine of text volume (please see images), small tear on bottom of the page 247. Light foxing on the edges of several pages (about 20 pages affected). Plate folder with several small rips on hinge and upper corner (please see images), as well as small tear on top of the spine. Plates have not seen much of the use as there are absolutely NO fingerprint marks, stains,folds nor any sort of writings and notations. Please see images and ask any questions you may have before placing your order. USA and Canadian orders willbe mailed postage free with full insurance and proof of delivery. For overseas methods of deliveries, please ask as it is going to be very expensive and with limited insurance for some destinations.

Rare and highly sought after book, probably the most expensive numismatic reference work published in 20th century. In last 5 years only 5 copies have been offered for sale, please see auction records for some of the most recent sales:

1. CNG 73 (Sep. 13, 2006), Lot: 2395 US $4500.00 + 15% Buyer's Premium (US $5175.00)

2. Malter Galleries (The Joel L. Malter Numismatic LibraryAuction, June 4th, 2006) Lot: 339, US $5200.00 + 15% Buyer's Premium (US$5980.00).

3. Kuenker Sale 102 (NUMISMATIC LIBRARY of Munzen Und Medallien AG Basel, 23-24 June, 2005), Lot: 3460, EURO 2800 + 15% Buyer's Premium (US $ 4300.00)