NNP

1787 1/2 P Georgivs III, Machin's Mills Halfpenny, Vlack 20-87C, W-7950, R.7, MS62 Brown NGC. Die alignment: 180?. A genuine rarity among the Machin's Mills coppers, and almost certainly the finest known example. Consistent light brown toning tinged with red covers both sides. While a small planchet flaw is seen at 4 o'clock obverse/2 o'clock reverse, there are no post-striking marks of any kind. The piece is lightly struck, with some detail lacking in George's face and Britannia's torso, and it is a bit off-center, but all major design elements are clear and the legends and date are intact (with the 87 of the date a touch off planchet). One of only two 1787 Machin's Mills halfpennies of any variety to be graded MS62 by NGC, with none graded higher. Listed on page 69 of the 2018 Guide Book. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.

Heritage Newman IX, November 2017, lot 15043, realized $15600. Images and description courtesy of Heritage Auctions.