"1652" Shilling Oak Tree - Silver Wyatt Copy Noe-2

Coin Details

Auction Record

$3,360 AU55 11-21-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

A silver copy of the Massachusetts Oak Tree Shilling produced by James W. Wyatt of London, cataloged as Noe-2. The silver composition matches the original metal of the Hull Mint coinage, making this a particularly faithful reproduction of one of America's earliest coins. The Oak Tree Shilling represents the second design type produced by the Massachusetts Bay Colony's mint, following the NE (New England) coinage and preceding the famous Pine Tree series. The transition from oak to pine tree designs occurred around 1667, and all Oak Tree coins are dated 1652 by convention. The shilling was the highest denomination at twelve pence and the largest coin in the series. Wyatt produced his silver Noe-2 copies in London for British collectors who had developed a keen interest in American colonial coinage. Silver copies are more challenging to distinguish from originals than copper versions, though experienced collectors recognize the differences in fabric, die style, and surface characteristics that mark Wyatt's 19th-century production. Silver Wyatt Oak Tree Shillings are among the more desirable items in his colonial copy series. The combination of silver composition, shilling denomination, and the historical resonance of the oak tree design creates strong collector demand. The Noe-2 designation ensures clear identification and prevents any confusion with genuine colonial specimens.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Silver Wyatt copies of the Oak Tree Shilling are significantly scarcer than copper versions and command premium prices.

Cross References

Noe-2 (Wyatt copy); Noe reference: Massachusetts Silver Coinage; Original: Oak Tree Shilling 1652 (circa 1660-1667)