1774 Machins Mills Halfpenny. Vlack 5-74A, W-7760. Rarity-4. GEORGIVS III, Group I. AU Details--Environmental Damage (PCGS).115.1 grains. Offered in our 2007 sale as an 8-74A, a "variety" now recognized as an early but rare die state of 5-74A (once thought to be Rarity-8), and cataloged as "A remarkably sharp specimen of this Machins variety, more detailed than even the Albany specimen sold in 2000. The surfaces show a blend of pale olive, subtle rose, and steel brown with some slight brightness from a light cleaning, but the detail is incredibly bold. This piece appears essentially unworn and, further, is very boldly struck, showing details at the waist of the seated figure that are practically never seen. Some very faint pitting is seen, most notable above the obverse portrait and at NIA on the reverse. The visual appeal remains decent, and as this piece slowly tones it will become even better. As noted in the cataloging of the Albany Collection in the 2000 C4, this is a very tough variety to find in high grade. Rated as Rarity-4 overall by August and Sarrafian, few specimens are known better than Very Fine. This interesting specimen, never previously offered at auction since being located in Pennsylvania, should be a new addition to the Condition Census. It will surely excite enthusiasts in this American-made halfpenny series." Here is one of the later entrants into the E Pluribus Unum Collection, undoubtedly purchased for the sheer level of remaining detail, stronger than even the gorgeous, high grade specimen on the Jack Howes plate. Most examples of this die pairing are of the later die state where the period after III has faded, this example is one of the rare earlier die states with a strong period, more akin to the die state in the 5-72A combination.From the E Pluribus Unum Collection. Earlier from our (Stacks) Henry Leon Sale, May 2007, lot 526. Said to have been found in an early estate home in Buckingham, Pennsylvania.
