Cast Copy 1792 Birch Cent. Type of Judd-3, Pollock-4. Lead. Plain Edge. Very Fine.

297.84 grains. In 1792, many members of the House favored a representation of the President's head on the obverse of each coin, others considered the idea a monarchical practice. Washington is believed to have expressed disapproval of the use of his portrait on American coins. The majority considered a figure emblematic of Liberty more appropriate, and the Senate finally concurred in this opinion. Robert Birch was an engraver employed to design proposed devices for American coins. He, perhaps together with others, engraved the dies for the disme and half disme. He also cut the dies for the large copper patterns known today as "Birch cents." Many 1792 half dismes and dismes circulated, however, only about a dozen of the 1972 Birch cent patterns are now known. This is NOT and original but a cast (lead) copy, type of Judd-3, Pollock-4 in the pattern reference. Although circulated to some extent, good detailing remains over the deep argent surfaces. A rare, unusual opportunity to acquire an early copy of this exceedingly rare pattern. A personal examination is recommended.

Estimate: $ 3000