1652 Massachusetts Pine Tree Shilling, Large Planchet, 70gn PCGS MS64 - Finest Known Noe 1

There are only three existing examples of the Noe-1 variety of the Pine Tree Shilling graded by PCGS. This specimen is the finest of those.

The appearance and eye appeal of this piece are simply outstanding. The engraving of the pine tree on the Noe-1 is sophisticated and realistic. That realism avoids the unrealistic proportions found on overly stylized trees typically seen on other varieties on the Pine Tree Shilling. This realism, combined with the carefully planned layout of the legend, as well as the pleasing arrangement of other design elements, gives the Noe-1 outstanding eye appeal and makes it a popular choice for specialists and high end collectors. This coin presents the appealing version of this iconic design on an extraordinarily wide planchet, resulting in a well-centered specimen of a die variety that is usually encountered decidedly off-center and substantially off-planchet. The reverse is nearly perfect in this regard. The only issues with this wonderful piece are the weakness of strike on both sides at the very bottom.

Sydney P. Noe, the famed numismatic researcher to whom we are indebted for our knowledge of the Pine Tree Shilling.  The example offered by AUCM is variety Noe-1.