1787 Massachusetts Half Cent. Ryder 4-C, W-5940. Rarity-2. MS-65 BN (PCGS). An outstanding survivor of this significant pre-federal type, with luster and surface preservation rarely seen on copper coins of this era. Both sides exhibit undiminished cartwheel luster and are bathed in an attractive light golden brown patina, with peeps of mint red at the borders. Close inspection reveals no abrasions large or small, just a few tiny reverse spots on the left wing and above the right, and some faint streaks of darker tone in the upper right obverse field and left reverse field. Slight weakness of strike is noted at the high relief centers of both sides, but this does not preclude a boldly visible HALF CENT on the eagles shield. A wonderful coin of top-notch aesthetic appeal. From our November 2012 Baltimore Auction, lot 6439.
