1788 New Jersey Copper. Maris 66-v, W-5505. Rarity-5+. Head Right, Braided Mane. VF Details--Cleaned (PCGS). 156.62 grains. Somewhat glossy in texture, and curiously so to explain the PCGS qualifier, although both sides have retoned quite nicely. The obverse exhibits a blend of golden-olive and medium brown, shallow edge bruise at the digits 17 in the date, minor planchet flaws over and behind the horses head. For the reverse we note deeper reddish-copper and autumn-brown with an uncommonly smooth appearance in hand. Well defined overall, most design elements are boldly to sharply rendered. This is an elusive die variety, survivors eagerly sought at all levels of preservation. Fortunately for collectors Maris 66-v is often sharp, although on the debit side this die pairing also tends to come badly flawed. This piece is perhaps more perfect than most, especially on the reverse. From the Norman G. Peters Collection.
