1787 Fugio Cent - Cross After Date Raised Rims

Coin Details

Description

Identified by two concurrent obverse features — a small cross punched after the date "1787" and prominently raised rims — this Fugio cent offers dual diagnostics for attribution. The cross, a small device punched into the die following the final digit, identifies this specific die within the Newman catalog. The raised rims indicate a different collar setup than flat-rim issues, creating more pronounced border definition that protects design elements from wear. Within the Pointed Rays classification, this variety combines two individually uncommon features. The Fugio cent, authorized by Congress on April 21, 1787, features the sundial with FUGIO and MIND YOUR BUSINESS on the obverse and thirteen chain links with WE ARE ONE on the reverse. The cross may have served a practical purpose: indicating a specific die sinker's work, a position in a production sequence, or simply a decorative addition. Struck in copper at New Haven under James Jarvis's contract, this variety is scarce. The two distinctive features — cross and raised rims — provide confident, independently verifiable attribution points for collectors.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The cross after date and raised rims are distinctive identifying features.

Cross References

Newman; Pointed Rays, cross after date variety