Coin

[TXDIRTFISHER]

One of my friends found this coin and he doesn't know what it is or what it is worth. Can anyone help?

 

[CRUSADER]

I think its called a Massachusetts Pine Tree Shilling or something, if it were real which I am not sure about then its worth quite a bit.

 

[Mackaydon]

It appears to be a replica of a Willow Tree Coinage coin issued in denominations of threepence, sixpence and shilling in 1652. If it's real, in that condition it is worth in the thousands, maybe over 100k.

Don.......

 

[CRUSADER]

http://www.treasurehunting.tv/archived_treasure_hunting/2006/02/1652_pine_tree_threepence.html

see similar but 3 pence - $3500

Based on this I guess its a copy but can't be sure without handling it.

http://www.common-place.org/vol-06/no-03/peterson/

See above shilling & normal condition

 

[Mackaydon]

I found this to be an interesting site to read about Pine, Willow and Oak Tree (Masachusetts or "New England") coinage. Pics are included. Due to the scarcity of these issues and the apparent condition of your 'coin', I'd lean to the replica opinion and quickly add I'm not qualified to make any opinion other than my 'two cents'.

http://www.coins.nd.edu/ColCoin/ColCoinIntros/OakTree.intro.html
Don.......

 

[PBK]

I agree that it is a Massachusetts "Tree" coin— or rather, very likely a modern replica of one— but I believe that it more closely resembles the Oak Tree shlling ("IN" at Bottom variety). Compare them below: Willow Tree shilling (left).... your coin (center)... Oak Tree Shilling (right). The site which Don recommends is an excellent source of information about these coins.

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[CRUSADER]

I agree that it is a Massachusetts "Tree" coin— or rather, very likely a modern replica of one— but I believe that it more closely resembles the Oak Tree shlling ("IN" at Bottom variety). Compare them below: Willow Tree shilling (left).... your coin (center)... Oak Tree Shilling (right). The site which Don recommends is an excellent source of information about these coins.

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What's a tree between friends.........

I did pretty good for being clueless about US coins. I'm learning my skills on this site, I'll crack it soon enough.

 

[PBK]

What a tree between friends.........

Well said! Two out of "Tree" ain't bad.

 

[TXDIRTFISHER]

Thanks for the input. How can my friend find out if it is authentic or a replica? The story is that his Dad had a very extensive coin collection and gave this to him among other coins. He didn't know what this was and wanted to get more info about it.

 

[vthepresident]

Congratulations on a true vic tree. It's a neat find real or not.
We in Alabama can only dream about Massachusetts silver. Here in Birmingham, I manage to dig lots of shell casings that were probably used to shoot at people, though. We made number 6 on America's most dangerous cities two years in a row. Way to go team!

Jealous,
V

 

[Mackaydon]

Tex:
You may wish to start by taking that "coin" to one of these local dealers in your area--and getting their opinion.

http://www.openlist.com/-/results/o...2520Dealers/oll/San+Antonio,+TX/olst/reviews/

 

[Montana Jim]

I agree that it is a Massachusetts "Tree" coin— or rather, very likely a modern replica of one— but I believe that it more closely resembles the Oak Tree shlling ("IN" at Bottom variety). Compare them below: Willow Tree shilling (left).... your coin (center)... Oak Tree Shilling (right). The site which Don recommends is an excellent source of information about these coins.

​

What's a tree between friends.........

I did pretty good for being clueless about US coins. I'm learning my skills on this site, I'll crack it soon enough.

Yea you DID do pretty damned good...

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

Thanks for the input. How can my friend find out if it is authentic or a replica?

First of all is it silver? If it is pot metal, it would obviously be a copy.

 

[l.cutler]

Definitely a copy of an Oak Tree shilling. It has the typical gravely look of the numerous cast copies.

 

[Iron Patch]

Definitely a copy of an Oak Tree shilling. It has the typical gravely look of the numerous cast copies.

For sure.

God I hope I never find one!

 

[Silver Searcher]

If it is a copy it's a clever one...firstly if you look at the coin from the 11 o'clock to 4 o'clock position it shows signs of wear, and also it looks like it has been made struck slightly of centre this was a common accernce from coins of this age and older. I hope it turns out to be the real thing.

 

[CoolFrayers]

The full weight of a Pine Tree Shilling is expected to be 72 grains.

 

[l.cutler]

Good point CoolFrayers, a cast replica will be heavier.