1785 Nova Constellatio copper. Crosby 4-C, W-1900. CONSTELLATIO, Pointed Rays, Script U.S. MS-61 BN (PCGS).117.8 grains. An extremely challenging variety to find in top grade with good centering, here represented by a very choice example. Frosty deep tan with golden overtones and exceptional luster on both sides. Very boldly struck and nicely centered, an aspect that cannot be taken for granted with this variety. The planchets used for this die marriage were a bit convex, with low rims that often led to the loss of some peripheral design elements. Here the legends are complete and almost entirely struck up, and some areas of sharp denticulated border are seen on both sides as well. This piece is in the same class as the better of the two Ford specimens from this die pair, Ford V:52, which was not as well centered but still brought a surprising $8,000.PCGS Population: 1; 21 finer.From the Archangel Collection. Earlier, from Stack’s sale of the Laird U. Park Collection, May 1976, lot 124; Stack’s sale of May 1968, lot 87.
