1760 Voce Populi Farthing. Nelson-1, W-13800. Rarity-5. Large Letters. EF-45 (PCGS). Gold Shield Holder.An exceptionally well produced and attractive example of this scarce Colonial era type. Although struck slightly off center to the upper obverse and lower reverse, this feature affects only the denticulation in those areas, as well as the base of the digits in the date. All design elements (including the date) are bold, and many of the more minor features are sharp. Ruddy-brown patina to much of the obverse, the reverse is a bit darker overall with light surface build up noted for accuracy. There are no significant marks or other blemishes, and the in hand appearance is uncommonly smooth for an example of this challenging type. The Voce Populi farthings, which are much scarcer than their halfpenny counterparts, were not included in Zelinkas listings of the series, nor were they represented in our (Bowers and Merenas) 1987 Taylor Collection sale that included Zelinkas own collection of this series. The Nelson-1 Large Letters variety is the more frequently encountered farthing in numismatic circles, although it is very scarce to rare in an absolute sense, particularly with the quality and eye appeal offered here. Nelson-2 with small letters in the obverse legend is a major rarity and seldom offered.From the Xavier Ken Koike Collection.
