NAMES IN THE NEWS : Hunts Selling Ancient Artifacts

LONDON —  Nelson Bunker Hunt and his brother William, whose attempts to corner the world silver market ended in disaster 10 years ago, are planning to auction their extensive collection of ancient artifacts.

“It’s really going to be the sale of the century as far as Greek and Roman coins are concerned,” said Tom Eden, Sotheby’s London coin expert.

Sotheby’s sale, which also includes vases and bronzes, is expected to raise about $20 million.

The pieces, which go on display Wednesday for three days in London, will be auctioned by Sotheby’s in a series of sales in New York over a one-year period starting in June.

Nelson Bunker Hunt was philosophical as he posed with his brother for photographs with the collection in London.

“It’s like having children. There comes a time when they have to leave the nest,” said Hunt.

The collections include the Athenian Dekadrachm, thought to be the most valuable coin ever sold at auction, with a price estimate of between $300,000 and $520,000.