1786 New Jersey copper. Maris 17-b. Rarity-3. Large planchet. PLUKIBUS. Overstruck on a 1783 Nova Constellatio copper, Crosby 2-B. Fine-15 (PCGS).120.1 grains. Quite possibly unique for the variety with this undertype, this is the piece cited by Mossman in his Table 29, based upon its appearance in our February 1986 Coin Galleries mail bid sale. It was described there as: “1786 M. 17-b. 120.1 grains. Struck over a 1783 Pointed Rays Nova Constellatio. The rays and stars clear on obverse, the wreath surrounding shield on reverse. Very good, light brown.” The surfaces are mostly smooth, glossy, and appealing. Aside from a few trivial rim bruises, this piece is choice for a specimen of its grade. Of course, the real selling point is the rarity and clarity of the undertype, which is beautifully bold on both sides. LIBERTAS is easily read above PLURIBUS, an evocative and relevant juxtaposition. This could be the centerpiece of a collection of New Jersey overstrikes. Die State 2, with PLUKIBUS clear.From the E Pluribus Unum Collection of New Jersey Coppers. Earlier, from Coin Galleries’ sale of February 1986, lot 1347.
