The E-Sylum:  Volume 7, Number 6, February 8, 2004, Article 16

PETER ROSA FOLLOW UP

Gene Anderson writes: "John Kleeberg's expanded information
on Peter Rosa was very informative. I plan to locate his article
in the Colonial Newsletter. A couple of things mentioned by Mr.
Kleeberg regarding Rosa's uniface copies are significantly
different when it comes to the 1804 Becker large cent pieces
that I have.

First, the diameter of the obverse and reverse match a genuine
cent. Second, both obverse and reverse appear to be made
of only copper. For those who have not seen Superior's Michael
Arconti catalog, I have copied the catalog description of lot 57
below. Bob Grellman wrote the description for Superior.

1804 S-266c Becker Counterfeit of Obverse and Reverse EF40.
High quality struck uniface copies of the obverse of the late die
state, each marked on the plain back with "BECKER". The
"BECKER" stamp on the obverse is incuse while the one on
the reverse is in raised letters. These marks are carefully
positioned so they fit into each other when the two sides align
exactly like a genuine 1804 cent. These are not the thin
electrotype "shells" used to encase a base metal core to create
an electrotype copy, but are struck pieces slightly more than
half the normal thickness of a genuine cent. Together they weigh
220.7 grains, which is well above the 168-grain standard of
that year. Apparently made from transfer dies, the original
example grading VF30 or better. These two copies are very
slightly worn, and the only marks are some faint hairline scratches
on the face of Ms Liberty. Glossy dark chocolate brown with
lighter brown highpoints. An extremely rare pair from this
"master counterfeiter." Two pieces in this lot, one obverse and
one reverse. Ex Bill Anton-Michael Arconti."

  Wayne Homren, Editor

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