I was interested to read comments and prices for Oliva porphyria on the list
lately.
I recently bought one which is 87mm, taken in 1985 in a net off Gulf
Chiriqui, Panama.
It is in very nice condition, I would say close to gem.
I had no idea of the value, I have just always wanted one of these lovely
shells. When I found one at US$7.50 I thought it was an affordable price so,
now that I know what they can sometimes sell for, I am extra pleased at my
bargain.
I just couldn't resist making some of you jealous out there.
By the way, I also bought a nice Thatcheria mirabilis from the same seller
for US$4.50. It is 73mm, trawled in 145m off Okiniwa, Japan in 1983. I know
that this was one of those "once" moderately rare and coveted shells, but
not so any more. How much are they worth these days? Maybe I got a good
bargain with this one too.
Kindest regards from Kiwiland.
Barbara Jouvernaux