The 1787 Massachusetts Half Cent NGC VF20BN is a significant piece of early American numismatics.¹ Here's a breakdown of what that designation means and the characteristics of this coin:

Coin Details:

Issuer: Massachusetts (United States, pre-federal and private/territorial)²
Period: Confederation Period (1781-1789)
Type: Standard circulation coin³
Years of Issue: 1787-1788⁴
Denomination: Half Cent (0.005 USD)⁵
Composition: Copper⁶
Weight: Approximately 10 grams
Diameter: Approximately 28 mm
Obverse Design: Features a standing Native American figure holding a bow in his right hand and an arrow in his left.⁷
Reverse Design: Displays a heraldic eagle with a shield upon its breast, on which the denomination "HALF CENT" appears.⁸
Historical Significance: These coins were among the first U.S. coins to bear the word "cent," defined as one one-hundredth of a Spanish dollar.⁹ Massachusetts chose to create its own state-run mint in 1786, making these some of the best-made and most attractive early American pieces.¹⁰

NGC VF20BN Grading:

NGC: This stands for Numismatic Guaranty Company, one of the most respected third-party coin grading services in the world.¹¹ Having a coin graded by NGC provides authenticity and an objective assessment of its condition.¹²
VF20: This is the grade assigned to the coin, meaning "Very Fine 20." In this grade, the coin will show moderate wear on the high points of its design, but all major details should still be clear and distinct.¹³ Features like the Native American's facial features and the eagle's feathers will be worn but recognizable.
BN: This stands for "Brown," referring to the coin's color. Copper coins, over time, develop patinas. "Brown" indicates that the coin has a primarily brown coloration, as opposed to "Red" (original copper luster) or "Red & Brown" (a mix of both).¹⁴

Value and Collectibility:

Colonial coins like the 1787 Massachusetts Half Cent are highly sought after by collectors due to their historical significance and relative rarity.¹⁵ The "VF20BN" grade indicates a respectable, circulated condition.

Based on recent sales data, a 1787 Massachusetts Half Cent graded NGC VF20BN has sold for approximately $625.00.¹⁶ Prices can vary depending on the specific variety, eye appeal, and market demand at the time of sale. More highly graded examples, or those with rare die varieties, can command significantly higher prices.

1787 Massachusetts Half Cent NGC VF20BN

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