1652 Pine Tree Shilling. Large Planchet. Noe-1, Salmon 1-A, W-690. Rarity-2. Pellets at Trunk. VF-30 (PCGS). 56.33 grains. The iconic Noe-1 Large Planchet Pine Tree shilling, highly sought after despite its relative abundance as it is considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing and prototypical in design of the Massachusetts silver coins. This mid-grade example displays a pleasing steel-gray patina with lilac overtones. Struck on a light weight planchet that is slightly narrower than most and also appears unusually thin which probably accounts for some weakness of strike seen at the lower obverse and opposing reverse. Advanced die state with numerous breaks running horizontally across the center of the reverse. Surfaces are lightly granular in places but generally well composed with an overall smooth and glossy appearance. From our November 2012 Baltimore Auction, lot 6318.
