NNP

Massachusetts 1779 5 Shillings 4 Pence Fr. MA-276. PCGS About New 53. The final Massachusetts Revere-engraved issue was a combination of the Rising Sun face designs and Thomas Fleet pine tree back. This second highest denomination has a full sun coming up at the left with complete facial details. Very few Rising Sun notes are strictly uncirculated, and in the highest grades, they are particularly underrated and undervalued compared with earlier "Codfish" notes. The assigned grade perhaps does injustice to this note's superb appearance. From the top of the sheet, it retains the full edge with embossing from the plate line visible. Well margined elsewhere and perfectly printed from a strongly inked plate. The face-to-back registration is also excellent. Though this might not technically be the highest graded example of the type, it may be the finest looking. The fully detailed sun on the face adds to its charm and eye appeal. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society

From Newman VIII (Heritage Auctions, 11/2017), lot 28051, realized $2400. Image and description courtesy of Heritage Auctions, https://ha.com.