1853 Octagonal 25 Cents. BG-101. Rarity-5-. Liberty Head. MS-63 (PCGS).

Splashes of orange-rose and pale yellow patina enliven a base of medium gold color for this attractive example. Satiny in finish with a boldly struck reverse, extensive rusting of the obverse die explains both the softer detail and rough texture (as made) on that side (BG Die State III). A positively choice example of what is thought to be the first Period I octagonal quarter minted for circulation in the heady days of the California Gold Rush. The S.S. Winfield Scott, which sank off the coast of California on December 1, 1853, yielded five examples of BG-101 when it was discovered and salvaged in the early 1960s. An impressive beginning to the extensive California small denomination gold offerings in this sale.

PCGS# 10370. NGC ID: 2BGK.

PCGS Population: 13; with a single MS-64 finer.

From the Oregon Collection.