1652 Threepence Oak Tree - No "In" on Obverse

Coin Details

Description

A die variety of the Oak Tree threepence notable for the absence of "IN" from the obverse legend. While the standard inscription reads MASATHVSETS IN, this variety either omits the word entirely or renders it so faintly or in such a position that it does not appear on surviving specimens. On the tiny threepence planchet, incomplete legends are common due to the challenges of fitting the full inscription within the small diameter, but varieties where specific words are consistently absent represent distinct die products. The obverse displays the oak tree motif with whatever portion of the legend the die and planchet size permitted, while the reverse carries the standard III denomination and NEW ENGLAND AN DOM 1652 dating legend. Attributing this as a genuine "No IN" variety (as opposed to a regular die struck on an undersized or off-center planchet) requires examination of multiple specimens from the same die pair to confirm that the omission is a characteristic of the die rather than the individual striking. Missing or truncated legend elements on Massachusetts colonial coins provide insight into the working methods of the Hull Mint. The die sinker ran out of room while punching the legend and chose to leave off the final word, or the word "IN" was placed so close to the planchet edge that it rarely received a full impression during striking. Either scenario reflects the handcraft nature of this coinage. The distinction between "In on Obverse" and "No In on Obverse" varieties demonstrates the level of detail that colonial numismatists bring to the study of these coins, where each surviving piece is a primary historical document from the earliest period of American monetary history.

Rarity Notes

Rare die variety. The missing "IN" makes this an unusual and notable variety within the scarce Oak Tree threepence type.

Cross References

Noe (consult Salmon revision); Crosby