1787 NJ 1/2P 1787/1887 Half Penny

Coin Details

Description

One of the most curious varieties in all of American numismatics, this New Jersey copper displays what appears to be the date 1787 punched over 1887 — an apparent overdate from a century in the future that is, of course, physically impossible. The illusion of an 1887 undertype is created by die deterioration, recutting, or progressive wear that modifies the numeral 7 in the date to resemble an 8, producing what reads as "1887" beneath the clear 1787 final date. Cataloged as Maris 36-I and Whitman 4830, this variety has fascinated collectors since its first documentation, earning its reputation as a "curiosity piece" that demands explanation. Struck in copper at approximately 6.7 grams with a 29 mm diameter and plain edge, the coin follows the standard New Jersey design with a horse's head above a plow and NOVA CAESAREA on the obverse, paired with the state shield reverse. The apparent overdate is classified as scarce, and the visual effect — however it was produced — is genuinely striking: the 7 shows clear evidence of an underlying digit that does read as 8 to most observers. Possible explanations include a die sinker who initially cut an incorrect digit and then corrected it, progressive die deterioration that filled and altered the numeral's profile, or an intentional recutting to extend a worn die's usable life. Whatever the mechanism, the 1787/1887 variety demonstrates that even well-understood numismatic phenomena can produce visually startling results that transcend their technical origins to become beloved collecting curiosities.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The apparent "overdate" makes this a curiosity piece.

Cross References

Maris 36-I; Whitman 4830