Counterstamps

(GUNS) / M.J.P. / 1855 on a (SHIELD) surrounded by (STARS) counterstamped on the planed down obverse of a 1840s Braided Hair large cent. Brunk-Unlisted, Rulau-Unlisted. Host coin Very Fine.

A striking example of a counterstamp! Evidently made in 1855, but by whom and for what purpose is unknown. Since the guns stamped on it are prominent, we have listed it with the gunsmiths. The initials M.J.P. are most likely those of the maker and if it is a gunsmith perhaps a match could be made. A quick look through Sellers (2008) finds several with the correct first and last initial, but none with all three. A piece just begging to tell a story!

From the Steve M. Tompkins Collection.

Estimate: $ 250