1849 Norris, Plain Edge Gold Half Eagle

Coin Details

Auction Record

$48,000 AU53 01-16-2022 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1849 Norris, Gregg & Norris plain edge gold half eagle holds a singular place in numismatic history as one of the earliest, the very first, private gold coins struck in California during the Gold Rush. Thomas H. Norris, Charles Gregg, and Hiram A. Norris established their minting operation in Benicia City (now Benicia), on the Carquinez Strait northeast of San Francisco, in the spring of 1849. The plain edge variant features smooth edges without reeding, reflecting the simpler production setup of this pioneer operation. The obverse shows a Liberty Head design with the date, while the reverse bears the firm name with SAN FRANCISCO (despite the Benicia City location) and the FIVE DOL. Denomination. As one of the first California private gold coins, the 1849 NGN half eagle was struck when there was virtually no coined money of any kind in California. Gold dust was the primary medium of exchange, and the appearance of actual coins represented a significant step toward a functioning monetary system. The historical primacy of Norris, Gregg & Norris in California private coinage gives their products an importance that transcends their modest production quality.

Rarity Notes

Very rare. Approximately 20-30 examples known across both edge types. The plain edge variant is particularly sought by specialists.

Cross References

K-1 (Kagin). Norris, Gregg & Norris, Benicia City, California, 1849. Among the earliest California territorial gold coins.