1853 Gold Dollar - BG-501, Eagle, "Humbert"

Coin Details

Auction Record

$17,825 MS64 10-11-2010 David Lawrence RC

Description

The 1853 California Fractional Gold Dollar (BG-501) is a tiny octagonal gold coin, measuring approximately 15 to 16 millimeters in diameter and representing a one dollar denomination in the California fractional gold series. The first period of California fractional gold production (1852–1858) saw dozens of San Francisco jewelers and coiners manufacturing these miniature gold coins to fill the vacuum left by the virtual absence of federal small-denomination coinage on the Pacific Coast. This variety features an eagle design — a motif that appears on a select number of California fractional gold pieces and distinguishes them from the far more common Liberty Head types. The eagle obverse lends these coins a more formal, governmental appearance despite their private manufacture. The octagonal format of this piece departs from the conventional circular planchet shape familiar from regular federal coinage, creating a distinctive eight-sided coin at a dramatically reduced scale. This piece is attributed to Augustus Humbert, who served as the United States Assayer of Gold in San Francisco and is best known for producing the famous fifty-dollar gold “slugs” at the U.S. Assay Office. The Humbert attribution on a California fractional gold piece connects it to one of the most prominent figures in Gold Rush-era private coinage, adding significant historical cachet to an already collectible series.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Period One California fractional gold pieces (1852–1858) are generally rarer than later Period Two issues, as they were produced in smaller quantities for actual circulation rather than the souvenir trade. The Humbert maker attribution adds provenance value, as collector interest in identified manufacturers of California fractional gold is strong.

Cross References

BG-501; Breen-Gillio catalog; PCGS #10478; NGC #501501; California Fractional Gold Dollar; Octagonal; Period One (1852–1858); Eagle type; Humbert