1787 Connecticut Copper. Miller 33.10-Z.7, W-3505. Rarity-6. Draped Bust Left. AU-53 (PCGS).150.0 grains. The obverse die worn nearly into oblivion, though we note that the die steel has eroded without cracking, while the reverse is in an early, though slightly clashed state, with a zigzag of die scratches in the flat fields within and around Miss Liberty. As such, the reverse appears several grades finer than the obverse, which looks a bit worn due to the late state of the die. Reddish-brown, frosty and lustrous, this coin was called “Finest Known” in 1975 and probably retains that title even today. From the Stepney Hoard, the sole recorded example of this die marriage to have been found in that storied hoard that supplied many of the highest grade Connecticut Coppers that are extant today.From the Robert M. Martin Collection. Ex Stepney Hoard (1951); probably Ted Craige; Q. David Bowers list; the 1975 EAC Convention Sale, Pine Tree Auctions, February 15, 1975, lot 254.
