1783 Nova Constellatio Pointed Rays - Small US Silver Half Penny

Coin Details

Description

Struck in silver rather than the standard copper, this 1783 Nova Constellatio half penny with pointed rays and Small US lettering is cataloged as Crosby 2-B (silver variant) and Whitman 1706. Silver strikings of the Nova Constellatio series are classified as extremely rare in the rarity notes, which identify them as pattern or presentation pieces rather than coins intended for general circulation. The use of silver for what was otherwise a copper halfpenny denomination strongly suggests these pieces were produced as specimens for governmental review, gifts for dignitaries, or souvenirs for those connected to the coinage proposal — a practice well documented in later U.S. Mint history but also evidenced in these earliest quasi-official issues. The obverse features the eye of providence at center surrounded by thirteen stars and sharply pointed radiating rays, while the reverse carries a wreath with the denomination and the legends NOVA CONSTELLATIO and LIBERTAS JUSTITIA. The silver composition provides significantly more detail and luster than the copper versions, as the softer metal flowed more readily into the die recesses during striking, producing a sharper impression of fine design elements. The Nova Constellatio coppers are associated with Gouverneur Morris's 1783 national coinage proposal, and these silver specimens may have been produced specifically to present to members of Congress or other officials evaluating the proposed monetary system. The extreme rarity and pattern/presentation status make this a major rarity that ranks among the most desirable pieces in the entire Proposed National Issues and Post-1776 Private and Regional Issues collecting areas.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Silver halfpenny strikings are pattern or presentation pieces.

Cross References

Crosby 2-B (silver); Whitman 1706