1787 Massachusetts cent. Ryder 2a-F, W-6070. Rarity-6+. F-12 (PCGS).165.8 grains. The most famous rarity in the Massachusetts copper series, and likely the first variety of Massachusetts cent struck. Between the distinctive placement of the arrows in the talon left of the eagle, and the execution of the word CENT in raised lettering rather than incuse on the eagle’s chest, this is a distinctive type in the series and not just a rare die variety. The surfaces are light brown and mahogany, showing roughness from likely ground exposure, but the sort of even color and light gloss that indicates this coin has been out of the ground for generations. The obverse is well centered, while the reverse is aligned a bit toward 6:30, leaving a wide rim atop that side. This piece saw enough wear that it underscores the principal problem with placing the denomination on the highest point of the design’s relief: it wears off. Just the center of C of CENT is visible, and it only slightly so. The date is mostly complete, a bit worn into the rim, and all other major design elements are present. A short old scrape is noted over MON of COMMONWEALTH. The eye appeal remains good, and the provenance is even better. This piece was sold from the collection of the Massachusetts Historical Society in 1973 and has since graced three major early American cabinets: Laird Park, Doris and Ellis Robison, and now Archangel. There are perhaps 15 examples of this variety known, and most fall into one of two categories: Mint State examples saved as souvenirs or those with a high degree of wear. While this is closer to the latter than the former, it is noteworthy that it is one of just five examples certified by PCGS.PCGS Population: 2; 2 finer (AU-53 finest).From the Archangel Collection. Acquired from Stack’s, privately, July 1982. Earlier, from the Massachusetts Historical Society Collection; Stack’s sale of March 1973, lot 60; Stack’s sale of the Laird U. Park Collection, May 1976, lot 88; Stack’s sale of the Robison Collection, February 1982, lot 103.
