1723 Rosa Americana Halfpenny. Martin 3.13-F.4, W-Unlisted. Copper. Rarity-8+. Crowned Rose. AU-58 (PCGS).

A beautiful and totally unique piece, featuring a not-in-Martin obverse combined with the F.4 reverse. This amazing coin came to light in our September 2013 Philadelphia sale where it was described as having an unlisted obverse. Syd was no doubt thrilled to acquire it in that auction and designated the new obverse die as 3.13. What wasn't mentioned in our initial sale of the coin, however, is that it is struck in copper as opposed to Bath metal and its status as an extremely rare off-metal striking adds even more to its significance and desirability. Fortunate for a newly discovered variety, the condition is outstanding. The chocolate-brown surfaces are lustrous and nearly flawless. Barely worn on the high points if at all, and some prooflike reflectivity is seen in the fields. Just like the obverse 3.2 varieties to which this coin is connected through its shared reverse die, the strike is perfectly executed, centered and bold throughout. It's clear that special care went into its production. An exciting offering for collectors of this series and worthy of consideration as well by those interested in the myriad and fascinating pattern issues for the Rosa Americana coinage.

PCGS# 905595.

From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier from our September 2013 Philadelphia Auction, lot 412.