1787 Machin's Mills Halfpenny. Vlack 21-87C, W-7960. Rarity-6+. GEORGIVS III, Group III. VF-20 (PCGS).
120.2 grains. Glossy, problem-free medium brown surfaces, a remarkably nice example of this challenging variety. A small scuff on the shield is the only minor imperfection. Otherwise just honest wear and has an overall well balanced appearance. Not quite as nice as the two examples illustrated in the Howes, Rosen, Trudgen reference, but better than most seen and probably within the best half dozen or so of the variety. While not quite as sharp as the Newman and Partrick examples, this piece has higher quality surfaces. Vlack 21-87C was discovered by Richard August in 1962 and probably no more than 20 examples have been found since.
PCGS# 914454.
From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex Christopher B. Young, July 2008.

Estimate: $2750