It is believed that this issue was produced in 1785, possibly at Wyon’s Mint in Birmingham. They have traditionally been called “Cents” but they are underweight and are more accurately termed “Bar Coppers.” They have long been popular with American collectors due to the patriotic obverse design which resembles soldier’s uniform buttons from this era. Bar Coppers are scarce in higher grades and are in strong demand from many classifications of collector.

The color is a pleasing tannish-brown with some gloss seen on the obverse. Close examination reveals some light old scratches on the obverse and without these, I can see this coin grading at least AU55, if not AU58. The eye appeal is exceptional and this is a beautiful example of this Trophy issue.

There are three auction comparables from 2013 and 2014, all graded AU53 by PCGS but none with CAC approval. These range from a low of $11,750 to a high of $12,925.

As someone who grew up collecting Colonial and Early American coins, I can tell you that even my jaded old heart still races when I see a nice example of this neat issue.

CAC has approved one in this grade with 12 finer.