1788 NJ 1/2P Fox Before Legend, BN MS(PCGS#524)

May 2019 Baltimore U.S. Coins Auction

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

3243

Grade

F12BN

Price

660

Lot Description

1788 New Jersey Copper. Maris 77-dd, W-5535, Die State 1. Rarity-3. Horse's Head Right, Running Fox Before Legend. Fine-12 (PCGS). A wonderful, problem-free example of the iconic Running Fox Red Booktype. The deep coffee coloration in the fields is complemented by lighter caramel shades across the high points. Glossy and smooth to the naked eye, with just a trivial granularity visible beneath a glass. The focal elements are bold despite softness to the leftmost legends as is commonly seen. This softness has rendered the eponymous fox weak but still distinct, and the eye appeal is strong. The Maris 77-dd is among the most popular die pairings, most recognizable in the clashed and damaged Die States 2 and 3. It is one of the several varieties from the New Jersey copper series attributed to New York silversmith John Bailey, who was also responsible for producing the Nova Eborac and Excelsior coppers. Provenance: From the Collection of Larry L. Terrell. Earlier ex Bowers and Merena, July 1997, privately. PCGS# 524. NGC ID: AUKF. Click here for certification details from PCGS.