1/2 Penny - Copper

Historical Context: The New Jersey 1/2 Penny copper, struck between 1786 and 1788, is a significant artifact from the Articles of Confederation era. Lacking a centralized federal mint, individual states, including New Jersey, authorized their own copper coinage. These issues addressed a critical need for small change in local commerce, reflecting the economic autonomy and challenges faced by the newly independent states before the establishment of a unified national monetary system.

Artistry: Specific engravers for New Jersey coppers are largely unrecorded, yet their designs reflect a practical, symbolic aesthetic. The obverse features a horse's head and a plow, symbolizing agriculture and prosperity, encircled by "NOVA CAESAREA." The reverse displays a shield, often with a horse's head crest, accompanied by "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and the date. This blend of classical motifs and state-specific iconography defines its stylistic school.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 9.6 grams and 28 millimeters, these coppers exhibit considerable strike variability. Key high-points for grading include the horse's mane and eye on the obverse, and the shield details and crest on the reverse. Early American coppers often show weak strikes, especially on opposing design elements, and planchet imperfections are common. A strong strike, yielding sharp definition in these areas and full legends, indicates a premium example.