1786 New Jersey copper 1/2p M18-M W4990 R3 Bridle PCGS EF45

From the Earlycoppercoins PCGS Registry Set.  Prior from the Stacks auction of 11/15/11, where this coin was lot #333 and described as: “1786 New Jersey Copper. Maris 18-M, W-4890. URS-12. Wide Shield, Bridle. EF-45 (PCGS).  This is the late state of Maris obverse 18 with a prominent vertical die break (as struck) from the end of the horse's nose to the chest (i.e., the so-called bridle). Well struck and overall boldly defined, smooth surfaces and warm medium brown patina are also appealing attributes. Problem free, and sure to sell for a solid bid.”  The coin realized $2,300 in that 2011 auction, and eventually made it’s way into Leonard Massa’s collection.  I purchased the coin from Leonard on 08/17/22 once it became his duplicate.  The coin has sharp details with original color that is an attractive mixture of dark and milk chocolate.  The reverse is perfectly centered while the obverse is slightly mis-aligned.  All features bold, including date, plenty of hair definition in the mane, and a clear "Bridle" feature.  No significant contact marks and a solid, original example of this major Redbook variety.  I would like to upgrade this to AU50+ but know that might take a very long time!