1791 Washington 1C Large Eagle, NGC MS66 RB CAC. Washington President, Large Eagle. Included in the American colonial series, this piece denominated as one cent, was struck in Birmingham, England. In fact, they were presented to some members of the American congress, who wished to start coinage of the United States as soon as possible. The Westwood Mint, who struck these pieces, tried to secure a minting contract from the United States government). Two different varieties were struck, one with a large eagle on the obverse (as offered here), the other with a slightly smaller eagle. Amazingly, the dies were engraved by sixteen year old John Gregory Hancock Jr., one of the most talented engravers in England at the time. The bust of Washington was based on a popular portrait of the first President (made by Pierre Eugène Du Simitière, and later used in various formats), proud and seriously considered for regular (American) coinage at the time.

It is believed that the large eagle variety had a total mintage of just 2,500 coins. Of these, many remained in England, but others were sent overseas and it is said that some actually circulated as one cent pieces. From the number of circulated and damaged examples known that is a very likely possibility, although unconscious handling by both contemporaries as well as later collectors might have a strong effect on these coins as well. Even though Bowers, in his new book on colonial coinage mentions that this issue is fairly available in uncirculated condition, we largely have to disagree with that comment. While lower uncirculated examples appear on the market from time to time, gem and finer examples are extremely rare. In fact, the present coin is considered to be the finest known of this issue, being an important offering for the specialist of colonial coinage.

Approximately 70% red color is remaining on both sides, truly rare to find on a copper coin from the 18th century. Furthermore, the surfaces are nearly mark-free, and have excellent eye-appeal. The strike is sharp, and all of the important details of the design are brought up to near perfection. One of just two coins certified by the major grading companies at the MS-66 level, the other having a Brown color designation, making this the finest known with a population of just one, with none finer. A rare and premium offering for the specialist of American coinage, or British tokens related to early America. Listed in various references as Baker-15, Breen-1206, Fuld-WA.1791.1.30MM, Bowers W-10610.