1783 John Chalmers Shilling. W-1785. Birds, Short Worm. EF-40 (PCGS).；53.9 grains. Rich charcoal-steel patina to the reverse, the obverse is a bit lighter in appearance in a blend of pewter gray and antique gold. (PCGS has mounted this coin with the reverse up in the holder; we are following the generally accepted definition of the birds side as the reverse.) Both sides are nicely centered within uniformly denticulated borders, all devices boldly to sharply defined in the absence of all but light wear. The overall texture is smooth and satiny, the obverse virtually devoid of even trivial blemishes. The reverse is also nicely preserved, although accuracy compels us to mention a minor flan flaw (as made) behind the bird on the left, as well as a tiny dig in the field above the serpent. Despite its standing as the most readily obtainable Chalmers coin, and the present sale also notwithstanding, the Short Worn shilling is scarce when viewed in the wider context of U.S. numismatics. This is a choice example for both the type and grade that is sure to catch the eye of discerning bidders.；From the Dr. Gordon Shaw Collection. From Kagins Baltimore Sale of August 1985, lot 1; William Doyle Galleries sale of the Loye L. Lauder Collection, December 1983, lot 176. Lot tags included.
