1788 Massachusetts Cent. Ryder 4-G, W-6230. Rarity-4+. EF-40 (PCGS).148.5 grains. Handsome faintly striated olive and chocolate brown surfaces. Up close some trivial porosity is noted as are a few small rim marks, but the general appearance is glossy and very pleasing. Nicely struck with good definition for the grade throughout, including at the centers. Only the top center of the shield blends into the eagle’s feathers. Called “Condition Census for the variety” in our Ford sale, which may seem a little optimistic at first for a Rarity-4+ variety, but nicer pieces are indeed very rarely seen. In fact, this is superior to the Norweb and Taylor coins, and it was apparently the nicest one John Ford acquired as it was the lone representative in his collection. The variety was not included in Garrett, Newman, or Partrick.From the Twin Leaf Collection of Connecticut & Massachusetts Coppers. Earlier ex Thomas Elder, October 17, 1908:46 (part); Hillyer Ryder; F.C.C. Boyd; John J. Ford, Jr., Stack’s, October 2004:125.
