A scientific article is best judged by its scientific merit in terms of content, genuinity, applicability and ease in understanding the message. The publishing journal is somewhat important as a reputed, quality journal can generally recognises quality articles. But honestly, the author's name has very little or nothing to do in this regard.
All great scientific articles have been appreciated and regarded even though they might have unduly been unattended or unaddressed for many days. Time has ultimately made its own corrections in recognising genuine qualities. This is historically true.