NNP

(1659) 4PENCE Maryland Lord Baltimore Groat (Fourpence), Large Bust, Hodder 1-A, W-1010, R.6, XF45 NGC. 30.6 grains. Die alignment: 180?. A firm strike provides full legends and a level of detail often lacking in more softly struck pieces assigned higher overall grades. The color is a consistent golden-tinged gray and the coin is well-centered. Some pre-strike planchet roughness is seen on the face and below the bust, but Calvert's features remain distinct on this Choice XF example. These were struck by the Tower Mint for the Catholic Cecil Calvert, Second Baron Baltimore, during the political upheaval leading to the English Restoration. Through this turmoil, Lord Baltimore successfully produced and imported a multidenominational coinage struck exclusively for use in an American colony. The first samples arrived in Maryland in March 1660, right after Massachusetts Bay had struck their NE and Willow Tree coinages. One of perhaps 20 examples known. As the only other die variety of Lord Baltimore groat is the unique Small Bust piece, the type as a whole remains very rare. Listed on page 42 of the 2018 Guide Book. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.

Heritage Newman IX, November 2017, lot 15010, realized $26400. Images and description courtesy of Heritage Auctions.