1785 Connecticut Copper. Miller 6.3-G.2, W-2410. Rarity-5+. Mailed Bust Right. AU-53 (PCGS).145.5 grains. A beautiful example of this scarce variety. Glossy and choice deep chocolate brown surfaces with luster in the obverse fields. Microgranular which is not unusual for the variety and really does not detract from this piece, easily the nicest example we have handled in years. It is far superior to the Taylor, Ford and Collection SLT coins. It is also a good bit nicer than the Colonel Green-Eric Newman coin sold in 2014. It is quite similar to the Hall-Brand-Oechsner coin (lot 1036 in the latter sale), which was cataloged as “possibly finest known” in 1988. That coin was marginally sharper than this, but this is better centered, with full legends and a complete date barely touching the rim. The Perkins coin looks similar, but was cataloged as “heartbreaking” for the scattered pinprick-like planchet flaws peppered over the surface. This one shows a similar effect, as do others of the variety. The Perkins coin also appears sharper, but it is an earlier die state whereas this coin is late, with more extensive reverse cracks and sinking of the reverse that has weakened some details. Superb eye appeal and only trivial handling marks.From the Twin Leaf Collection of Connecticut & Massachusetts Coppers. Earlier ex Benson Collection, Part I, Goldberg’s, February 2001:57.