1776 Contemporary Counterfeit Halfpenny. George III Irish Type. About Uncirculated.109.7 grains. Though showing little actual wear, this coin shows areas of weak strike as a result of the bulging designs from dies that are sunken and failing on both sides. Its surfaces are dark coffee brown, glossy and choice, giving this coin a desirability absent from the sometimes rough surface quality on many contemporary counterfeits. Though 1776-dated contemporary counterfeits are more numerous than their genuine 1776-dated brethren, this coin is distinctive for its tiny lettering, especially that on the reverse.From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex Clem Schettino, 2010.
