It often pays to auction pieces with little identification or history. At the Skinner Auction on January 9, 2016, the catalog offered an unsigned 19th-century Continental bronze figure of two Greek athletes, one carrying a torch in each hand, the other with an arm on his friend’s shoulder. It was 19 7/8 inches high and had minor flaws and patina problems. It was listed with an estimate of $1,000 to $1,500. But some bidders thought the bronze was made in the 17th century and kept bidding until it sold for $273,000. The buyers believe it is a 17th-century treasure and bid accordingly. We have reported on about four auction items a year that have unrecognized value. Internet auctions send clear, enlargeable pictures around the world to entice bidders. Usually a foreigner will either come to the auction site, this time Boston, or send an expert to examine the piece. But any interest is kept secret to keep others from taking an extra look.