| Description |
1652 SHILNG Pine Tree Shilling, Large Planchet MS63 NGC. Noe-1, W-690, Salmon 1-A, R.2. 73.8 grains. This shilling has superlative eye appeal. The irregularly shaped planchet displays a crisp and well-centered strike, with the majority of the designs present and exhibiting strong definition. Beautifully toned, with hues of champagne, gold, blue-green, pink, sea-green, and lavender. Salmon writes, "...this coin is often cited as the most elegant in design of all of the Massachusetts silver series and is highly sought-after as a representative for type among collectors. Fortunately it is in sufficient supply to satisfy this demand, though uncommon in mint state." This MS63 specimen is a wonderful exception. On this variety, the tree design is asymmetrical, with none of the tree branches paired with another on the other side of the trunk. The coin exhibits the die clashing of XII, viewed on the obverse below the tree. Many examples show a prominent die clash near 7 o'clock on the obverse, as is the case with this piece. The reverse reveals a focal break at the upper left portion of the D, along with the "fine curvilinear break bridging between the upper 1 and 6 in the date" as described by Salmon. The N of AN also exhibits die breaks consistent with an early die state. As production at the mint was contingent on silver consignments by the people in the area, coins were not struck on a daily basis over the thirty-year span of the Massachusetts silver coinage. The standard weight of the Massachusetts shillings was 72 grains, with this uncirculated piece weighing slightly over that figure. The visual appeal of this well struck early silver coin is outstanding. The next custodian of this piece of American numismatic history will be very fortunate indeed. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.
Realized $47,000.00. Description courtesy of Heritage Auctions. |
