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I have a coin that is dated 1783 (might be 1763). On one side it has the date at the bottom with the words Massachusetts around the border. An eagle is in the middle. The eagle has a shield in the middle with a side profile of the head and two wings. Tail feathers proceed out from the bottom of the shield with the feet holding an olive branch (?) and arrows (?). On the other side is an Indian holding a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other. Around the border are the words Common Wealth. The coin is about the size of a Quarter and is dark brown in color. Just curious what I have. Thank you for your help.
Richard,
The closest thing I can find to match your description is a colonial Massachusetts copper -- probably a 1788 half cent. Examine the shield to see if you can make out the letters "HALF CENT".
If you do have one of these, I would estimate value at about $75
Pictures and info about colonial Massachusetts coins can be found here :
http://www.coinfacts.com/colonial_coins/massachusetts_coppers/ma_copper_coins.ht...
I hope this helps,
Dan
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Answers by Expert:
Dan Moore
Expertise
My strong familiarity with all U.S. Mint coins, extensive reference library, and close relationships with many other dealers allows me to identify just about any coin made in the USA. I receive regular updates to all the current price guides -- both wholesale & retail -- to provide accurate values. So, with a good description or pictures, I should be able to identify and value any U.S. coin you have.
Experience
I've been a coin dealer since the 1980's and a coin collector since the 1960's. I specialize in U.S. Silver Coins and have an active online website -- The Working Man's Rare Coins -- http://www.workingmancoins.com -- offering information and inventory in U.S. coins.
Organizations I belong to :
American Numismatic Association Member #187770
Michigan State Numismatic Society Member #8255
Florida United Numismatics Member #19710
Monroe Coin Club Treasurer
Lincoln Coin Club Board Member
WINS Member #14
CoinMasters Member #1814
Frequently Asked Questions :
I have created a Frequently Asked Questions page on my website, where you may be able to get an immediate answer to your question. You can find the page here :
http://www.workingmancoins.com/FAQ/index.htm
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