1915 California Gold Half Dollar Token - X-Tn11

Coin Details

Auction Record

$785 MS63 11-14-2020 eBay

Description

The 1915 California Gold half dollar, cataloged as X-Tn11, is a larger-denomination gold souvenir token from the Panama-Pacific International Exposition period. The half-dollar denomination provided a more substantial gold piece than the quarter-denomination tokens, appealing to visitors seeking a premium souvenir from the San Francisco exposition. The Panama-Pacific International Exposition of 1915 was the most numismatically productive world's fair in American history. Beyond the famous official commemorative issues — the gold dollar, quarter eagle, fifty-dollar round, and fifty-dollar octagonal — the exposition spawned hundreds of medals, tokens, and private gold pieces. The X-Tn11 California gold half dollar is part of this rich numismatic legacy, offering a mid-size gold souvenir between the affordable quarter tokens and the expensive official commemoratives. The 1915 California gold tokens represent the final flowering of the small California gold souvenir tradition that had begun during the Gold Rush era. While the earliest California gold pieces served genuine monetary necessity, by 1915 the tradition had evolved entirely into the souvenir and collector market. The Panama-Pacific Exposition provided the last major occasion for the mass production of California gold tokens, making the 1915-dated pieces the effective conclusion of a numismatic tradition spanning over sixty years.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. The half-dollar denomination was produced in smaller quantities than the quarter tokens. Approximately 25-50 examples of the X-Tn11 variety survive.

Cross References

PCGS #685852; HK X-Tn11 (California Territorial Token)