Tiny (!) 1852 Bear Back 1/2 Fractional California Gold Coin ~ Frick Estate Provenance {World Coin K-2}

*** Last photo shows a 10K acid test done on the 2 fractional gold coin tokens in this auction ***

Fascinating antique coin will make an excellent, mysterious and educational gift for your young numismatist … or a special love token :- )

From Wikipedia:
California gold coinage is a broad category of privately-issued coin-like items that were used in place of official currency in the United States territory (later state) of California during the gold rush of 1849. Since the federal government reserves the right to issue legal tender coins, California gold coinage is a misnomer and actually references coin-like ingots with a stated tender value, tokens with a stated tender value (denominated), and tokens without a stated tender value (non-denominated). These items are only classified as an ingot if the value of the metal was close to the tender value marked on the piece. In spite of the misnomer, it is common practice among numismatists to label coin-like ingots and denominated tokens as 'coins' while labeling the non-denominated tokens as 'tokens'.

In the early period, from roughly 1852 through 1853, the coins were made for actual use due to a scarcity of silver coins. These coins were quickly rejected as being too small to handle, but simultaneously gained popularity for use as souvenirs that could be economically mailed to families. Although the earliest issues had about 80-90% of the correct weight for the denomination, the weights constantly decreased over the years of issue. Only the extremely rare "defiant eagle" issue has the full weight of gold.

This coin was found in an old coin album…
Think of it ::: a coin is really a flat disc double sided sculpture and should be regarded as such. The artistry involved in creating such tiny wonders is awesome and the history is both humbling and fascinating.

We are selling off quite a few foreign coins. We know nothing about coins. We are not researching them. We are not grading them. Sold as pictured/as is. Good luck.

Comes in a small plastic coin holder.

Provenance:
This is just one item out of a huge stash of clothing, accessories, coins and household items from the Henry Frick estate; the Railroad Magnate. The woman who acquired them originally worked as a ladies maid out on the Frick’s Long Island estate. We purchased them directly from her great granddaughter, a lifelong Danbury resident, who had been their careful and respectful guardian for many years/decades.

Now out into the world once again!

More from this haul to be auctioned over the next weeks/months! Keep an eye on our upcoming auctions which will include everything from Mr. Frick’s collapsible top hat - to his gold wire-rimmed childhood spectacles, and much much more!

Notes: Most of the items offered here are antique, vintage or used. You should expect signs of wear consistent with age. Please regard all pictures carefully and ask us any questions prior to bidding. Measurements, if provided in our descriptions, are close approximations. We do our best to describe all items accurately. Every item starts at just $1. The bidder (you) determines the price. Written descriptions are based on the Auction Manager's opinion and should in no way be construed as a guarantee of any kind as to age, condition, authenticity, materials or any other feature of items being sold. That said (and this is the important part) All items are sold FINAL SALE/AS IS/NO RETURNS. We love questions - please ask! Enjoy the gamble and the hunt! :- ) Diana Clarke, Auction Manager

Commensurate with age

Coins & Stamps, Coins

18%

Diana Clarke (TEXTS PREFERRED) | (551) 206-3187 | auctionhousegalleriesusa@gmail.com

Pickup Details

Danbury 06810

When to Pickup

By Appointment Only

Ask a Question

Report Item