(1688) American Plantation Token 1/24 Real - Sideways 4

Coin Details

Auction Record

$14,100 • MS61 NGC • 01-2024 • Heritage Auctions

Description

Identifiable by the numeral "4" in the "1/24" denomination on the reverse being oriented sideways rather than upright, this American Plantation Token variety preserves a distinctive die-cutting anomaly that both Newman and Breen considered evidence of an original late 17th-century striking rather than a later restrike. Cataloged as W-1145, Newman 3-C, and Breen 81, the variety uses Newman reverse die C and is rated R.7 with fewer than 15 confirmed specimens. The sideways orientation of the numeral 4 resulted from the die engraver cutting the digit at 90 degrees from its intended position — an error that became a permanent diagnostic feature once the die entered production. Notably, the obverse die used for this variety was later repurposed for circa-1828 restrikes, meaning the same obverse die that produced these original late-1600s strikings survived for approximately 140 years before being used again in the 19th century — a remarkable testament to the durability of steel dies and the continuity of numismatic interest in these early American tokens. The American Plantation Tokens were authorized by James II around 1688 for use in the English American colonies, struck in tin in the 1/24 real denomination tied to the Spanish monetary system. This piece belongs to the Pre-1776 Private and Regional Issues (1616-1766) series and represents one of the earliest tokens intended for circulation in the American colonies.

Rarity Notes

R.7. Extremely scarce; fewer than 15 specimens confirmed.

Cross References

W-1145, Newman 3-C, Breen 81