1791 Washington Small Eagle Cent. Musante GW-17, Baker-16, W-10630. Copper. Lettered Edge, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. AU-55 (PCGS).Beautiful medium chocolate brown surfaces are glossy throughout and retain traces of natural debris in some of the recesses of the legend which speak to complete originality. A trace of wear is visible on the slightly subdued high points, but there are no marks worthy of mention. Nicely struck with just a trace of softness on Washingtons epaulette and on the highest curls of hair, which is typical of the type. The eye appeal would be very difficult to improve upon for the grade. Though not rare, the small eagle cent by John Gregory Hancock is historically significant as an entrepreneurial attempt at gaining a coinage contract for the United States which did not yet have its own coining capabilities. It is believed that a large number of such coins were exported from Birmingham to the United States. Some were saved as curiosities at the outset and survive in high grade. Many seem to have circulated to varying degrees. This would be among the latter, though it certainly didnt pass in commerce very long before it was likely pulled from circulation and saved as a memento of Washington.From the John M. Pack Collection. Earlier ex John Kraljevich Americana, September 2021.
