Images courtesy of Superior Galleries

Significant examples:
"AU-50+" (illustrated above).  Superior "Pre-Long Beach Sale", 06/2000:158, where it was described as follows: "1797 S-136 R3- AU50+ Slightly sharper but there is a reddish chocolate spot of microscopic roughness at F-A on the reverse. Otherwise this cent is a choice glossy light brown and tan with smooth, virtually perfect surfaces. There is just a touch of very light friction on the highest points of the design and no notable contact marks. MDS, the obverse very sharp while the reverse is slightly blunted, as usual. Portions of the edge show clear grip marks similar to those found on some of the S-120 and S-121 cents of this year. There is no doubt these grip marks were present at the time of striking, but their origin is a mystery to me. Graded AU55 net EF45 and CC#4 by Noyes, AU55 tied for CC#1 by Bland. A very attractive cent, especially the obverse.
    Ex Stephen C. Fenton (Knightsbridge Coins, London)-Ronald J. Gillio 8/19/85-Doug Bird 5/29/86-C. Douglas Smith-Dr. Robert A. Schuman."

Recent appearances:
NGC AU-53.  Heritage Numismatic Auctions, Inc.'s "Long Beach Sale", October 5-7, 2000, Lot 5852, "Sheldon-136, Rev. of 1797, Stems", unsold

"Net Fine-15".  B&M "Robert W. Schwan" 10/2000:100, "Sheldon-136, Rev. of 1797", $299.00

Sources and/or recommended reading:
"Penny Whimsy" by Dr. William H. Sheldon

"Walter Breen's Complete Encyclopedia of U.S. and Colonial Coins" by Walter Breen

Relevant collector organizations:
Early American Coppers Club