LOT WITHDRAWNA significant offering for Washingtonia and US Colonial specialists that represents only the second time weve ever presented an example at auction. The surfaces are painted in pleasing olive-brown patina with darker hues shadowing in the protected areas. A few old marks are present under scrutiny, including a thin pinscratch that bisects the reverse, though these have been well incorporated into the overall complexion. Softness at center is typical of these dies and the devices are otherwise bold. Evenly worn and attractive at this grade level.<p>A very interesting variety and rare variety, one that shares an obverse die with the far more common Unity States variety, Vlack 27-W, GW-104. The distinctive reverse is best distinguished by the presence of a triple leaf cluster under F of OF. It was first discovered by dealer James King in a December 1972 Harmer Rooke Auction and was soon after documented by scholars Robert Vlack and Walter Breen.<p>Despite this recognition, this variety remains relatively unknown among specialists and just three examples have been confirmed, including the present piece. The discovery specimen was last sold at auction in 2007 graded EF-45 (NGC) and was reportedly in the Richard August Collection as of 2009. Another example is part of the Sydney Martin Collection and the grade has not been reported. The present piece is a seemingly recent discovery, and it first appeared on eBay in February 2017. It would certainly be a highlight in any world class cabinet of Colonial rarities, and no 18th-century Washingtoniana collection can be deemed complete without it.
