1787 New Jersey copper. Maris 73-aa. Rarity-4. Plaited Mane. Overstruck on 1788 Connecticut copper, Miller 16.3-N. Fine-15 (PCGS).124.9 grains. Chocolate brown with uneven surfaces and sharp devices. The horsehead, plow, and shield are all bold, overwhelming the central motifs of the Connecticut undertype. The surfaces are rough in areas, and a bit of plaque clings to the topside of the plow bar. A little dusting of earthen verdigris is seen within the mane details. The visible obverse legend reads CAESAREAIB, and the 1788 date of the Connecticut undertype is nearly in the correct position for the 1787 date of the New Jersey dies. The outline of the Connecticut portrait is pretty bold on the reverse, beneath the shield, surrounded by a peripheral legend of PLUORI COM. This Connecticut variety is known to be overstruck itself on occasion, usually over 1787 Massachusetts cents, Ryder 1-B. Someone enterprising, imaginative, and a little bit near-sighted may be able to find Massachusetts cent design amidst the mess of intermingled New Jersey and Connecticut devices. We wish you luck.From the E Pluribus Unum Collection of New Jersey Coppers.
