1851 Proof California Gold $50 - $50 PE Humbert, Copper

Coin Details

Auction Record

$32,000 AU55 03-01-1980 Bowers & Ruddy

Description

This copper proof impression of the 1851 Humbert fifty-dollar slug with plain edge is another variant in the extremely small group of non-gold strikings from U.S. Assay Office dies. The plain edge distinguishes this piece from the lettered edge copper proof, suggesting a different collar die or no collar. The plain edge may represent an earlier stage in the die trial process, before the lettered edge collar was prepared. The absence of edge lettering creates a different visual experience despite identical obverse and reverse designs. Copper die trials from territorial gold mints are exceedingly rare across all issuers, and the Humbert fifty-dollar pieces represent the most spectacular examples of this practice.

Rarity Notes

Unique or nearly so. This is one of the rarest pieces in all of territorial gold numismatics.

Cross References

K-9b (Kagin); PCGS #10210; NGC #31319; Augustus Humbert, U.S. Assay Office; copper proof, plain edge