1787 Connecticut Copper. Miller 6.2-M, W-2825. Rarity-4. Mailed Bust Left, Second Laughing Head. AU-58+ (PCGS).77.6 grains. Glossy light olive brown with some subtle reddish highlights in the recesses and outlining the figure of Liberty on the reverse. Mostly smooth surfaces except for roughness arcing around the left periphery on both sides due to insufficient metal. This is struck on one of the lightest planchets we recall having seen for this variety and the thinness of the metal simply did not allow for complete execution of the peripheral designs. The impression was well centered, however, and the portions of the date and legend unaffected by the poor flan are quite sharp, as are the central details. One thin fissure passes above Liberty’s branch and appears as a scratch at first, though it is natural. A really lovely example of this scarcer Laughing Head variety and among the finest we have handled in many years.pThough struck on an inferior and far lighter flan, this is every bit as nice as the Collection SLT coin we sold in January 2012, if not better in terms of wear and surfaces. That coin brought just over $4,300. It is also nicer than the Taylor, Perkins and Ford coins, and far superior to Eric Newman’s. It would be quite challenging to find a better preserved example.From the Twin Leaf Collection of Connecticut & Massachusetts Coppers. Earlier ex Anthony Terranova, 2000.
