An early version of old copper vessel (5)

I believe the answer is:

draft

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'an early version' is the definition.
'draft' can be an answer for 'version' (I have seen 'Preliminary version' mean 'draft' so perhaps 'version' could also mean 'draft'). I'm not certain of the 'an early' bit.

'old copper vessel' is the wordplay.
'old copper' becomes 'd' (historical abbreviation for penny).
'vessel' becomes 'raft' (I've seen this before).
'd'+'raft'='DRAFT'

'of' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for draft that I've seen before include "Preliminary version or sketch" , "Sketch - detachment of men" , "Formulate" , "conscript" , "A money order for US conscription" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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