1783 Nova Constellatio copper. Crosby 3-C, W-1875. CONSTELATIO, Blunt Rays, Small U.S. MS-62 BN (PCGS).125.3 grains. Exceptional frosty luster covers both sides over light brown surfaces that yield golden and steel highlights under a lamp. The fields are choice and free of marks, and the devices are sharply defined. A tiny rim nick adjacent to N of NOVA is the only contact point worth noting. The reverse die is cracked through ER of LIBERTAS, and another crack extends to the nearby quatrefoil from the rim. This is a tough variety to find in top grade, and this one is in similar condition to the better of Ford’s two examples. As a type coin, it also outpaces most choice Uncirculated Nova Constellatios encountered in the marketplace.PCGS Population: 4; 5 finer (MS-65 BN finest).From the Archangel Collection. Earlier, from New England Rare Coin Auctions’ sale of March 1976, lot 76.
