1786 Connecticut Copper. Miller 4.1-H.2, W-2537. Rarity-8+. Mailed Bust Left. Good-6 (PCGS).

130.1 grains. An exciting offering, the first ever auction appearance of this totally unique die pair and the only unique variety among the 1786 Connecticuts, excluding Bungtowns. This coin was discovered by Chris Young in mid-2008 and it was acquired by Syd soon after. Syd published the find in the Winter 2008 C4 Newsletter where it was featured on the cover. At first, the variety was called 4.3-H.2 as it was believed to be a new obverse die. Subsequent study and overlay analysis has shown that it is in fact obverse 4.1 and it was strike peculiarities that caused the dentil positions in relation to the letters to look different. With the reverse clearly being H.2 and that die previously known only with obverse 5.8, the status of this coin as a new variety was never in doubt. Quite pleasing for the grade with fairly smooth and wholesome looking medium brown surfaces. There are some light planchet flaws and a bit of natural roughness to the metal, but no serious marks or obvious impairments other than honest, even wear. Some of the legends and most of the date are off the planchet, not so much from being struck off center but more so from the planchet being somewhat small in diameter. The important diagnostics of the H.2 reverse are clear including a bold branch with all leaves distinct and visible die cracks through INDE. The offering of a unique state copper variety is always anticipated with excitement. There is nothing more thrilling or satisfying for an advanced student of any given series than owning the only existing specimen of a certain coin. The sale of Syd Martin's Connecticut copper collection will provide several such unique pieces to the collecting community. These are likely fleeting opportunities and of paramount importance for advanced Connecticut copper specialists.

PCGS# 905506.

From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex Christopher B. Young, April 2008.