1652 Pine Tree Threepence. Noe-36, Salmon 2-B, W-640. Rarity-4. Without Pellets at Trunk. VF Details--Damage (PCGS).15.84 grains. Darker slate-gray patina resides in the recesses while lighter silver surfaces show though on the high points of this lovely 3d. A dramatic waviness to the planchet has caused the motifs to wear unevenly, and the entire left side of the obverse remains indistinct. Fortunately, the tree is sharp and most of MASATHVSETS is bold. The reverse is more uniformly defined, with a bit of softness at the denomination and right border, but the date is clear and NEW is distinct. An overall attractive and appealing piece without noteworthy blemishes. Given the excellent detail that characterizes the Noe-36 dies, Christopher J. Salmon (<em>The Silver Coins of Massachusetts</em>, 2010) suggests that the engraver may be the same person who also prepared the dies for the iconic Noe-1 Pine Tree shilling. In any event this variety is a favorite among type collectors seeking a single example of the Pine Tree threepence, although the present offering would also do well in a specialized variety set.From the Cohasco Collection of Colonials formed by Sir Philip H. Snyder, circa 1963-68.