Among the significant Early American coins featured in our August 2019 ANA Auction is an EF-45 (PCGS) Noe-16 Pine Tree shilling in lot 477 that once belonged to famed numismatist Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr.
In general, the Noe-16 Small Planchet Pine Tree shillings were very well produced and struck on high quality metal. The dies were kept in service for an extended period of time, providing an interesting study of obverse die states as it wore down. The reverse die held up much better and was later used for at least six subsequent die marriages. The reduction of planchet size in the 1670s helped Hull and Saunderson reduce the Boston Mint’s costs and allowed for a greater potential profit to its benefactors. Because of its overall high quality and relative availability, the Noe-16 shilling has long proven to be a popular selection for type collections as well as students of the early Colonial period.
This example represented the Noe-16 marriage in our legendary sale of the Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr. Collection in May 1996. Sold in lot 13 and held privately since, we are delighted to be offering this treasure to a new generation of collectors.
It is an attractive and original specimen with slate-grey patina and tinges of sapphire iridescence at the borders. Well struck for the variety and overall sharp, it shows just a minor softness at the lower obverse border. The obverse die is in an earlier state than is typically seen, showing just minor flaws at the lowest three branches to the left which eventually develop into a singular cud. The surfaces are hard and smooth and display significant luster in the protected areas. Overall nicely centered for the type and aligned just slightly towards 6 o’clock on the obverse.
This Choice EF Noe-16 Pine Tree shilling in lot 477 will be featured in our August 2019 ANA World’s Fair of Money Auction, sold alongside an 1894-S Barber dime in lot 5178 and an 1876-CC twenty cent piece in lot 5182. The sale is available for viewing and bidding at www.StacksBowers.com or you can call 800-566-2580 or email info@stacksbowers.com to secure your copy of this incredible catalog! Also, download our mobile app to view and participate in our auctions via your Android or Apple device.
