1652 Sixpence Oak Tree - 'IN' on Reverse

Coin Details

Description

A die variety of the Oak Tree sixpence identified by a distinctive feature related to the appearance of "IN" on the reverse side. While the standard reverse legend reads NEW ENGLAND AN DOM 1652, this variety exhibits a characteristic in the letter forms, spacing, or positioning of certain elements on the reverse die that distinguishes it from other known reverse dies used for Oak Tree sixpences. The obverse presents the broad oak tree encircled by MASATHVSETS IN, rendered in the improved style that marks the Oak Tree period of Massachusetts colonial coinage. The reverse carries the VI denomination within its beaded border, with the surrounding legend providing the New England attribution and the perpetual 1652 date. Reverse die varieties in the Massachusetts colonial series are identified through close examination of the dating legend, denomination numerals, beaded borders, and overall letter style. Because the die sinker used individual letter punches for the legends (a significant improvement over the freehand-engraved Willow Tree dies), the punch impressions can sometimes be traced across multiple dies, helping researchers understand the tooling available at the Hull Mint and the chronological sequence of die preparation. The sixpence denomination circulated heavily in the colonial economy, serving the practical need for change at a value below one shilling. This heavy use, combined with the inherently lower survival rate of smaller coins, means that Oak Tree sixpences in any variety are considerably rarer than their shilling counterparts. Collectors who specialize in Massachusetts colonial silver view each die variety as an individual chapter in the story of America's first authorized silver coinage.

Rarity Notes

Rare die variety. All Oak Tree sixpence varieties are scarce, with total surviving population well under 100 pieces.

Cross References

Noe (consult Salmon revision); Crosby