1787 Nova Eborac Copper. W-5750. Rarity-5+. Large Head. AU-55 (PCGS).

148.2 grains. Not overstruck. Light golden-brown with considerable reddish-rose color showing from an old cleaning, now faded down and naturally retoning. Well centered on both sides, with good central sharpness even given the late states of both of these dies. Obverse failing severely, the circular disintegration around the effigy's face engages the ribbon and its bow behind the head. In addition, there is a linear break on the reverse from the border at about 11 o'clock running through the tops of the letters ET and engaging the very topmost hair bow on the seated figure's head. This is a scarce entry in the enigmatic Nova Eborac series, thought by some to have been produced in New York City by John Bailey and Ephraim Brasher. Michael Hodder Estimate:d a population of only 25 or so examples in May 2004. This is easily the finest certified that we've ever offered, surpassing the previous record holder in the PCGS VF-35 Syd Martin specimen by a healthy margin. The best of these is the Norweb-Partrick example, one of two Mint State pieces certified by PCGS. The primary Ford AU brought $21,850 in 2004. It is amazing that the offered coin was Ford's duplicate, for precious few Large Head Nova Eboracs show this much detail or possess such strong eye appeal.

PCGS# 484. NGC ID: 2B4C.

Ex F.C.C. Boyd estate; our (Stack's) sale of the John J. Ford, Jr. Collection, Part II, May 2004, lot 296.

Estimate: $7500