Counterstamps

J.B in a box punch on an 1835 Matron Head large cent. Brunk B-51, Rulau-Unlisted. Host coin Very Good.

Although Brunk has this listed as the hallmark of James Boyce, this is actually the stamp of John W. Blauvelt (1807-1849) who was a silversmith working in New York City from the 1820s to the 1840s. He was located at 38 Thompson St. in 1831, 40 Thompson St. in 1834 and at 55 Thompson St. in 1840. In 1848 he was still listed at the last address, but as a "spoonmaker". Evidently he fell under the spell of "gold fever", as he travelled out to San Francisco and passed away there in August 1849.

From the Steve M. Tompkins Collection.

Estimate: $ 175