1787 New Jersey Copper. Maris 31-L, W-5095. Rarity-3. Outlined Shield, Shattered Die. AU-50, Granular.136.0 grains. A truly pleasing example appearing smooth to the naked eye but revealing a faint microgranularity under magnification. The obverse die is spectacularly shattered, featuring radial cracks from the border at 3, 5, 8, and 9 oclock as indicated in Die State 3. Even so, the devices remain sharp and detailed, with considerable intricacy remaining to the horses mane. The reverse is similarly sharp, though showing at center that is typical of this marriage. Dark coffee hues dominate the complexion while traces of mahogany patina are scattered throughout the lower shield. Ideally centered on the obverse and slightly drawn to the south on the opposite side.From the Collection of Larry L. Terrell. Earlier ex Jeff Kierstead Rare Coins, March 1999, privately.
