1787 Massachusetts Half Cent. Ryder 4-C, W-5940. Rarity-2. MS-63 BN (PCGS). 65.8 grains. A remarkably well struck example from a relatively early state of the dies. The central detail of the Indians tunic and belt as well as the reverse shield is fully brought up in sharp relief. Lustrous surfaces with a bit of prooflike flash, particularly in the reverse fields. Natural deep brown with red undertones, a fairly common patina for Mint State examples of the variety. Some natural planchet roughness is seen at the upper obverse and around portions of the borders on each side, an effect of the metal not being fully smoothed out by the strike likely due to the planchet being somewhat underweight. Overall an excellent Choice Mint State example with considerable eye appeal. PCGS# 688343. From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex Lawrence R. Stack Collection, November 2006.
