Expert: PAPAJACK - 10/19/2008

Question
I am in possession of a coin that my father found in a century home he was remodeling some time ago. It is dated 1788 and Mass.(spelled out) I was told it was a counterfeit but the "coin appraiser" told me he would be more than happy to buy it from me for 20 bucks (back in 1988)...needless to say I declined. Is there any one in my area that can give me the 'heads up' on this coin? I had my uncle take it to someone in Columbus, Ohio (I live in Canton, Ohio) and they said nothing of it being counterfeit. I'm so confused! please help. I can forward photos to you if you like. Thanks for your help, Brenda

Answer
Hello Brenda,                                

I need more information to tell you what you might have. What designs are on the coin?
Are there any other mottos?
What is the coin made of?

This coin may be a replica of the rare 1788 Massachusetts Half Penny or one Penny Tokens. If it was made prior to the Hobby Protection Act it would not have the word copy stamped on it.  That act states that all copies and replicas of old coins have the word "copy" stamped somewhere on one side of the coin. Since the originals sell for $300.00 and up a copy becomes desirable to some collectors

Here is an AMERICAN NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION MEMBER/DEALER near you. They are ethical and trustworthy. He will be able to help point you in the right direction if he cannot authenticate the piece himself.

Permaguide
2427 9th St SW
Canton, OH 44710-1806
Phone: (330) 456-8519
Specialties Numismatic Literature, Paper Money Obsolete, Tokens, Medals, Chips or Cards  

D & R Numismatics
PO Box 2793
North Canton, OH 44720-0793
Phone: (216) 494-2072
Specialties Paper Money Foreign, World Coins
* Part time dealer  

I hope this information helps. I am including an image of the original Massachusetts Copper Half-Cent and One Cent Coins you can try to compare yours to theses.  

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack