1796 1/2 C Edwards Copy MS66 Brown PCGS....

Click the image to load the highest resolution version.

Sold on Jul 31, 2008 for:

$25,300.00 Bid Source: HA.com/Live bidder

Get one of these:

Share this lot

Track Item Printable Auction Results

Sell One of These

Description

Auction Info

Guides & Info

Description

Amazing 1796 Edwards Half Cent, MS66 Brown

1796 1/2 C Edwards Copy MS66 Brown PCGS. It is believed that the Edwards copies were produced in the mid-1860s, either in London or New York. Breen notes that "the origin of this copy has been kept obscure." He points out that the first auction appearance was in W. Elliot Woodward's April 1866 sale, lot 944. It is thought that the copies were produced by Dr. Francis S. Edwards, based on contemporary commentary of E.J. Attinelli, who said "to him was attributed the appearance of several counterfeit pieces of rare American coins and medals."
In his Half Cent Encyclopedia, Breen described 10 distinct examples in his Condition Census for the variety. Half a dozen years later, R. Tettenhorst described four additional pieces that had appeared since Breen's reference was published. He also noted duplications in Breen's roster, and remarked that one of those in the earlier list is actually an electrotype of the Edward's copy. Among the new pieces was one described as "Uncirculated, with some red. In the possession of a Pennsylvania dealer in the summer of 1982."
This piece is nothing short of amazing. Delightful, nearly perfect surfaces display tinges of original red luster that enhances the light olive patina, especially on the reverse. It is likely among the finest of just a dozen known examples. EAC 63.

View Certification Details from PCGS