"1652" Silver Twopence Oak Tree Wyatt Copy

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,800 MS62 11-10-2018 Heritage Auctions

Description

A silver (AR) copy of the Massachusetts Oak Tree Twopence created by James W. Wyatt of London. The Oak Tree Twopence holds a special place in colonial numismatics as the smallest denomination in the Massachusetts silver series, and genuine examples are among the most cherished colonial coins. The original Oak Tree Twopence was produced at the Hull Mint in Boston during the Oak Tree period (approximately 1660-1667), though like all Massachusetts colonial silver, it bears the date 1662. The tiny coin features an oak tree on the obverse with the legend MASATHVSETS IN and the value "II" on the reverse within a double ring with the legend NEW ENGLAND AN DOM. Wyatt's silver copy reproduces the essential elements of this diminutive coin. The small flan size presents particular challenges for copyists, as fine details must be compressed into a limited space. The silver composition matches the original metal, though Wyatt's die work shows the characteristic 19th-century style that distinguishes his productions from 17th-century Hull Mint coinage. The Oak Tree Twopence is particularly popular among colonial collectors because of its small size, historical significance, and relative scarcity. Wyatt copies provide an affordable alternative for collectors who cannot acquire genuine examples, and they serve as useful study pieces for understanding the design and format of this important early American coin.

Rarity Notes

Scarce to rare. The twopence is the smallest Oak Tree denomination and Wyatt copies of it are particularly sought by colonial specialists.

Cross References

Wyatt Copy series; Noe reference: Massachusetts Silver Coinage; Original: Oak Tree Twopence 1662 (circa 1660-1667)