1786 Connecticut Copper. Miller 5.4-G, W-2580. Rarity-2. Mailed Bust Left. EF-45 (PCGS).138.4 grains. A number of high-grade examples exist of this die marriage, not unexpectedly so given an R-2 rating. Though not the finest known (that honor probably goes to the amazing Newman-Twin Leaf specimen or to the gorgeous CT State Library coin Robert calls “Choice EF” but which looks nearly Mint State in his photo), this example ranks among the finest and is also among the most well-balanced and choice for the given grade. Its fields are glossy and lustrous, its strike is bold and as complete as possible for the variety, and its centering is ideal, with no loss to the legends or design motifs at the peripheries. The date is notably bold and complete. The color begins at a light golden brown at the lower obverse and deepens to a darker brown in the upper 1/3 of the obverse; the color scheme is identical but in reverse on the reverse. Finer than the Oechsner and Taylor specimens, though not quite as fine as the sharper primary 1975 Pine Tree EAC sale specimen. This coin was a lucky purchase from Mike Ringo in 1990, and Robert undoubtedly snapped it up in recognition of its superb eye appeal and difficulty in finding a more visually appealing example for the money.From the Robert M. Martin Collection. Purchased from Mike Ringo, June 13, 1990.
