1787 Massachusetts Half Cent. Ryder 4-C, W-5940. Rarity-2. AU-58+ (PCGS).75.0 grains. Deep olive brown surfaces exhibit considerable remaining luster in the fields, so much so in fact that this piece has been offered as Mint State in both past offerings listed below. In our 1998 sale, it was called “Brilliant Uncirculated,” while the writer of the 2002 C4 sale graded it “MS-64.” The surface quality and eye appeal will sell this piece well enough. Attractive and hard surfaces are smooth save for some peripheral flowlines due to wearing of the dies. Slight softness at the centers is most easily seen at the Indians waist where just a trace of natural roughness remains. HALF CENT is fully defined, even if the surrounding shield lines are not. Not that rare of a variety, but sharp and quite handsome.From the Twin Leaf Collection of Connecticut & Massachusetts Coppers. Earlier ex Stack’s, May 1998:83; Eighth Annual C4 Convention sale, November 2002:357.