1787 Massachusetts Cent. Ryder 8-G, W-6160. Rarity-6+. Arrows in Left Talon. VF-25 (PCGS).
A serious rarity among Massachusetts cent varieties with just 16 examples currently traced. This pleasing and bold specimen is the highest graded example to have come to market in recent years and would likely be included in an overall Condition Census for the variety. The finest known examples of the variety grade just EF and one of those higher grade coins is impounded in the ANS collection. This piece has glossy olive brown surfaces with a bit of pale orange in places, remnants of a long ago light cleaning. There are no consequential marks, just a few minor planchet flaws on each side which are as-made. Nicely struck with pleasantly bold detail for the grade. As a variety that was missing from such landmark collections as Garrett, Taylor, Ford, and Newman, and one that is typically found in low grades, the present offering represents a significant opportunity for the advanced Massachusetts copper collector.
PCGS# 688952.
From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex Coin Rarities Online, December 2009.