1796 Castorland Medal. Silver, Original. W-9100, Breen-1058. MS-64 (PCGS). Reeded edge. Coin turn.226.8 grains. A really spectacular original Castorland medal, displaying spectacular aesthetic appeal and superb technical preservation. Flashy, reflective surfaces show bright pastel blue toning, more subtle violet-gray, and hints of gold over the lustrous silver surfaces. The strike is well centered and crisp, with all details fully realized. Some minor hairlines are seen, but no significant problems are detected under magnification. The eye appeal and originality are both superb. The usual focus of attention while studying the die state of an early Castorland medal is the right handle of the sap pot sitting at the base of the tree. Spalling, a chipping away of the steel die surface, manifests there first, well before any die cracks evolve. The spalling is visible on this piece, but in an early state, considerably earlier than the silver piece that follows, but not as early as either the first copper or the silvered copper specimens in the Martin Collection. The reverse cliche, likely created before the die was even hardened, is an important text representing the earliest die state.<p><p>These dies clearly proved popular at the Paris Mint after their initial execution by Duvivier in 1796, and the original dies were restruck for collectors from nearly the day they were deposited until the dies fell apart. The reverse die went first, but the obverse lasted well past the midpoint of the 19th century. These reeded edge silver pieces are considered the essence of what a Castorland should be: coin like (thanks to their reeded edges), often showing circulation, struck contemporary to the intended settlement at Carthage, New York. A typical grade of EF or AU is sufficient for most collectors. Examples this nice are both special and rare.<p><p><p>PCGS# 653.PCGS Population: 7, none finer.From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex the Lawrence R. Stack Collection, November 2006.<p>
