1787 Vermont Copper. RR-14, Bressett 10-K, W-2105. Rarity-3. Bust Right--Overstruck on a Nova Constellatio Copper--VF-35 (PCGS).

This is a scarce late die state example of RR-14 that is also significant for being overstruck on a Nova Constellatio copper. It is a lovely Choice VF with overall smooth, satiny surfaces that are hard, tight, and free of troublesome marks. A single planchet void is present, out of the way at the upper left obverse border after the word VERMON. The obverse impression is drawn to 8 o'clock, affecting only the denticulation, which is absent along the left border. Reverse also off center to the lower left, again affecting only the border denticulation in that area, although the date, while legible, is a bit weak at its base. All other major design elements are boldly outlined, and the all-seeing eye from the undertype is plainly evident in the center of the obverse. Even blended autumn and medium brown patina adds to the appeal of this example. While not a rare variety in an absolute sense, RR-14 is scarce in its late die state, as well as when found overstruck on a Nova Constellatio copper. The reverse die of this variety was also used in the RR-12 and RR-32 pairings. The fact that most RR-14s show little to none of the reverse break above the seated figure's head confirms that this is the first of the three varieties produced. On the present example, the border break is as advanced as seen on most RR-12s, suggesting that this coin was one of the last struck from the RR-14 pairing. Both Carlotto (1993) and Bowers (2018) accentuate the scarcity of this variety when overstruck on Nova Constellatio coppers. While there are technically finer RR-14s extant, including Ford I:37 and 38, the present example offers a winning combination of overstrike, late die state, smooth surfaces and strong visual appeal that is sure to attract spirited bidding from specialists.

PCGS# 800831.

From the Q. David Bowers Collection.