1787 New Jersey Copper. Maris 38-b, W-5185. Rarity-6+. Outlined Shield, Small Head, PLUKIBUS. Good, Porous. 118.21 grains. An exciting find for the New Jersey copper specialist, for this is a readily attributable example of an elusive Maris number. The central design elements are discernible, as are some of those around the peripheries, although heavy wear and moderate porosity are noted from what was obviously a long stint in commerce. Possibly a ground find, although the surfaces are well composed apart from the aforementioned porosity, the only notable marks a few ancient scratches over and above the shield on the reverse. When Dr. Maris published his <em>Coins of New Jersey</em>, he knew of just two specimens of this marriage. Today, the variety is only slightly more common, with perhaps 15 known. Siboni, Howes, and Ish (2013) say it best: "It is almost impossible to acquire a nice-looking Maris 38-b in any grade." This warning should be borne in mind when contemplating the current offering, especially since this Maris number simply does not appear in the market with any degree of frequency. PCGS# 766310. Collector envelope with attribution notation included.
