1787 Cent Massachusetts, Ryder 3-G, BN MS(PCGS#688947)

November 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

1219

Grade

MS62BN

Price

3,240

Lot Description

148.6 grains. A fascinating coin, struck from a late and fatigued state of these dies. Exceptional frosty luster persists around both sides, with lovely chestnut brown toning enlivened with olive where mint color was last to fade. Nicely centered, planchet a bit crude at edge beneath date as issued, magnificently well detailed everywhere except the centers, where the dies have begun to collapse. The contrast between, for example, the eagle's wings and the central reverse is dramatic, as the feathers show each individual vein within them, but the shield below CENT is nearly flat. The same effect can be seen on the obverse. A glass finds widespread spalling across the obverse die, manifesting as scattered raised lumps in the field. The reverse remains smooth and frosty. Neither side shows significant marks or post-striking defects of any kind, and technically this is likely worthy of an even higher grade. This variety is available enough in Mint State that this could be someone's superb type coin without them having to pay a variety premium.