Counterstamps

L.G. MASON (4) / C.G. RIDER on the obverse and C.A. OTTERSON / L.G. MASON / C.G. RIDER on an 1843 Braided Hair large cent. Brunk M-272 var., Rulau-Unlisted. Host coin Very Fine.

Lysander G. Mason (1831-1887) and Charles A. Otterson (1835-1913) were machinists working in Worcester, MA in the 1870s and 80s. It is unknown if C.G. Rider was also a machinist, but does seem likely. For Lysander G. Mason, Brunk gives no information, but does list one example reported on an 1864 small cent, making this a new example but a variant due to the other names stamped. There are no listings for either of the other men.

From the Steve M. Tompkins Collection.

Estimate: $ 200