"1652" Twopence Oak Tree - Copper Wyatt Copy

Coin Details

Description

A copper copy of the Massachusetts Oak Tree Twopence made by James W. Wyatt of London. The twopence was the smallest denomination struck during the Oak Tree period of Massachusetts colonial coinage (approximately 1660-1667), and genuine examples are rare and valuable. The original Oak Tree Twopence features a small oak tree on the obverse with an abbreviated version of the MASATHVSETS IN legend, and the value "II" on the reverse within a border. The tiny flan makes it one of the most charming pieces in colonial American numismatics. Wyatt's copper copy reproduces these design elements at the diminutive twopence scale. The copper composition immediately distinguishes Wyatt's copies from the silver originals. This was intentional, creating a clearly identifiable reproduction rather than a potential forgery. Copper copies of small colonial denominations were popular among 19th-century collectors who wanted representative examples of every denomination in a colonial series without the expense of silver specimens. Wyatt's copper Oak Tree Twopence copies are collected today as part of the broader category of documented colonial reproductions. The small size and copper composition give them a distinctive character quite different from the silver originals, yet they serve the important function of making this rare colonial type accessible to a wider collecting audience.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Copper Wyatt copies of the Oak Tree Twopence are uncommon but more available than silver versions of the same type.

Cross References

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