1783-dated Washington Cent, Draped Bust/No Button. As noted in Breen, struck by the Soho Mint in Birmingham circa 1820, to circulate alongside U. S. Federal Large Cents as a token issue of convenience. This was legal (until the 1850's) as the U. S. Large Cent had limited or no legal tender value at the time. Regardless, popular as a representation of the "Father of the Country", and they certainly did see commercial use. In the "Redbook" and commonly collected along with the traditional Colonial issues. A sharp original high grade example, certified PCGS AU-53, recently repatriated from Europe, new to the population (Mid 2020). A couple of light marks in the soft Copper surface, however no spots, stains or other defects as is very common on high grade pieces, due to improper storage by non-collectors who had put them aside as a souvenir of the “late unpleasantness” between Great Britain and the Colonies. It is also noted by specialists that this design was restruck during the Civil War period, and originals such as this can be distinguished by the position of the drapery “point” above the 7 in the date. Typically, such pieces with nicer problem free surfaces seem to sell above the PCGS “guide'“ price, particularly if they shows evidence of original planchet color. While this does not, the surfaces are otherwise superior to most I have reviewed, so worth just a little premium I should think.

PCGS 676.53/39719027