1787 Nova Eborac Copper. W-5755. Rarity-3. Medium Bust, Seated Figure

1787 Nova Eborac Copper. W-5755. Rarity-3. Medium Bust, Seated Figure Left. AU-55 (PCGS). It is difficult for us to imagine a nicer example of this Medium Bust Nova Eborac variety than this, at least without bringing some Mint State coins into the discussion. Lovely copper brown surfaces are hard, tight, and show nice frost in the fields as the coin rotates into direct lighting. The originality is undeniable, both sides also with plenty of good gloss. Obverse centering is good, reverse a bit off center to 12 o'clock with softness along the upper border, but the overall strike is bold, and the central design elements are impressively sharp. There are no marks or other blemishes of note. A coin of overall superior quality, and worthy of the strongest bids. Like the Excelsior coppers, the Nova Eborac pieces of the same year are attributed to John Bailey and Ephraim Brasher. The two are believed to have operated a joint minting operation in or near New York City, through which they sought a contract to coin coppers from the New York State legislature. Although the contract was never issued, Bailey and Brasher went on to produce a sizeable issue of Nova Eborac pieces, the letter punches for which match those of Brasher's rarer and more famous gold doubloon. This type apparently saw wide circulation, as most are well-worn. We have records of two pieces found archaeologically in Charleston, South Carolina! Provenance: From the Emerald Coast Collection. Earlier from Heritage's sale of the Aspen Collection, July-August 2008 Baltimore ANA Signature Auction, lot 902. PCGS# 478. NGC ID: 2B4A. Click here for certification details from PCGS.

Estimate:£0.74

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