1773 Virginia Halfpenny. Newman 16-U, W-1660. Rarity-7. No Period After GEORGIVS, 8 Harp Strings. MS-63 BN (PCGS).One of the major rarities among Virginia halfpenny die varieties with fewer than 10 examples known. This die pair was unknown to Newman and not discovered until an example was described in our (Stacks) June 1973 auction, originally as Newman 14-U. This is a distinctive variety that comes extremely well struck and interestingly all known survivors are in essentially Uncirculated condition, with similar brown patina and matching "pull-away" toning atop the legends. The similar, high grade appearance suggests these coins were set aside soon after they were struck and stored together for many years. Perhaps this variety was kept out of the normal distribution channels and the discovery of a small hoard sometime in the 20th century, potentially in the UK, would explain the late appearance of the variety in American collections. Examples of this variety are certainly distinct in appearance from the usual red or red-brown Mint State Virginia halfpenny originating from the Cohen hoard. This handsome piece has slightly prooflike chocolate-brown and tan surfaces with sea-green iridescence and small traces of mint red on the reverse. A few toning spots of deep reddish-brown are noted on the obverse, but there are no consequential marks and overall the surface quality and eye appeal are exceptional for the grade.PCGS# 913247.From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier from Heritages August 2015 Chicago ANA Signature Auction, lot 3017.
