1652 Massachusetts Pine Tree Shilling, Small Planchet (Noe-30, R-3) NGC MS62 Ex: Ford - Pedigreed back to the famous Ford collection, this premium quality Pine Tree Shilling is a choice example for the type. Rare in uncirculated condition, as can be guessed for a 300+ year old coin, which circulated heavily in early America. While these pieces are often available in lower, damaged grades, pieces with full luster are incredibly scarce and not offered with any regularity.

Pine Tree shillings, and pieces of denominations were struck from 1675 to 1682, despite the 1652 date on the obverse. By this time, silver deposits had steadily increased, and the Mint turned out a steady supply of coinage for use in the New English colonies. In his Encyclopedia, Breen noted the following of this variety, his number 62:

“62. 1652 Shilling. Quatrefoils. Rev, “Masonic” punctuation. Noe 30. Always on small polygonal flans. Probably issued through much of 1682”

These early colonial issues were the first which had been struck within the modern United States and saw subsequent circulation. Although a single variety of three denominations, undated, had been struck in 1652 few collectors are able to afford those pieces struck in New England. As such, demand for these coins has also increased, especially in original condition as seen here.

Certified by NGC in a new holder, this coin is also boosting with originality. The surfaces are lightly toned to a rose-pink color, and is very pretty to look at. The strike is full, with the tree sharp. Struck slightly off-center, this is a problem with all these coins, which were produced under primitive circumstances. No other problems are seen, and at first glance this coin appears to grade higher then MS-62, as indicated by NGC. A perfect coin for the collector of American colonial coins, or anyone seeking a part of early American history, at its very beginning.