1652 3P Pine Tree, No Pellets MS(PCGS#45366)

1652 3P Pine Tree, No Pellets MS (PCGS#45366)

June 2020 U.S. Coins Auction

Lot Description: 1652 Pine Tree Threepence. Noe-36, Salmon 2-B, W-640. Rarity-4. Without Pellets. VF-30 (NGC). 13.9 grains. A handsome and richly original example of both the type and die pairing. Boldly toned in blended steely-charcoal and mauve-gray patina, both sides are smooth in hand with no notable blemishes apart from a faint obverse pin scratch through the final letter S in MASATHVSETS. The strike is off center to the lower left obverse, common for the variety, with better centering on the reverse, also typical. A touch of softness over the lower left obverse is easily forgiven as the other areas retain bold to sharp detail for all major design elements. Though largely forgotten amidst greater attention and market demand paid to the larger shillings, the diminutive Massachusetts Bay Colony threepence are important and interesting as more than accessories to their more beloved brethren. For a circulated piece, this is nearly as nice as they come. PCGS# 45366. NGC ID: 2ARR. Click here for certification details from NGC.