1787 New Jersey Shield Outlined (Maris 46-e, R-1) NGC MS64BN - Except for a few issues which were widely hoarded at their time of issue, all 18th century colonial coins are very scarce to very rare in mint state. The coppers produced in New Jersey are no exceptation, as they were used in circulation into the 19th century. In what is essentially very choice mint state, this is a truly rare coin from the state that is known as the Crossroads of the American Revolution.

NJ Copper pieces become exceptionally rare in high grades, especially so in mint state. At MS-64, this piece is the single finest known for the variety, which is separately listed in the guide book of United States coins, or red book. It is also near the top of the condition-census for any of the New Jersey coppers. One of the most eye-catching features of this die pair is that the dies soon clashed when they were paired, as seen on particular the obverse. A near full shield is visible, including some of the horizontal lines on top. While die clashes on federal United States coinage is found on many series, they are usually never this strong as seen here.

This amazing and important coin has a pedigree going back to the early 20th century, when it was part of the Hillyer Ryder collection. It was subsequently owned by F.C.C. Boyd, and was later bought by John J. Ford, in which collection it was sold in 2003. According to our information, it changed hands twice after that sale, making this probably one of the last possibilities to acquire this coin until it will be included in a specialized collection of Colonial coinage, perhaps for a long time.

Designated brown by NGC, we still see small remnants of original Mint red color in the protected areas. Overall, the coin has a fresh look, and luster is remaining on both sides. No distracting marks are seen on either side, which have been brought up to considerable sharpness. In all, this is a great coin for either the specialized collector, or anyone seeking a high quality colonial coin with a well-documented pedigree going back almost 100 years.