Undated (1733) Rosa Americana Pattern Twopence Obverse Die Trial. Martin Obverse 1. Steel. Rarity-7+. Unc Details--Graffiti (PCGS). 292.9 grains. A second and very interesting example of the extremely rare 1733 twopence steel obverse die trial. Engraved on the blank reverse in fine and very old style that is no doubt contemporary to the date it bears, "HAWKINS JANry 1737." This exact piece was mentioned by Philip Nelson in his 1903 reference <em>The Coinage of William Wood, 1722-1733</em> where he states "There exist some six examples of the obverse of this coin struck in steel, one being in the authors cabinet; and on the reverse of another is engraved Hawkins, Janry. 1737." Struck on a slightly broader and considerably heavier planchet than the preceding example, but of the same steel composition. Likely carried as a pocket piece, it is somewhat worn and has some light porosity and rust on otherwise undamaged surfaces. A fantastic piece that would make an intriguing and significant addition to an advanced cabinet.<p> PCGS# 905778. From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier from Sotheby, Wilkinson, and Hodges sale of the Murdoch Collection, July 1903, lot 441, via Spink & Son, Ltd.; Virgil M. Brand Collection; our (Stacks) sale of the Breisland Collection, June 1973, lot 788.
