1837 Illustrious Predecessor. HT-34, Low-20, DeWitt-CE 1838-4, W-11-540a. Rarity-1. Copper. Plain Edge--Struck Off Center--MS-64 RB (NGC).

28.5 mm. A rare major Mint error in the Hard Times token series. The strike is off center at 3 o'clock relative to the obverse, both sides with a thin crescent of virgin planchet along the left borders. The off centering is minor enough that no major design elements are affected and, in indeed, the striking detail is universally bold. Ample mint color remains to surfaces that are also originally toned in iridescent gray-brown. This HT number is among the more plentiful of the satirical types, and we have handled a number of nice Mint State examples over the years. This is only the second major Mint error for the type that we can recall handling, however, and the first was a far lower grade ANACS VG-10 piece that sold in our (Stack's) January 2007 Americana Sale. This lustrous near-Gem is sure to sell for a strong premium to an advanced collector.