1852 Augustus Humbert $50. Reeded Edge. K-11. Rarity-5. 887 THOUS., Target Reverse. AU-50 (NGC).
A bright, lustrous and frosty About Uncirculated example that retains much of the original mint finish. The color is a pleasing shade of golden-olive that provides additional eye appeal. Well struck with the date discernible and much of the peripheral legend legible, softness to the high points of the eagle is typical of the type and hardly of concern. The rims are uncommonly smooth for a Humbert $50 regardless of variety, and none of the light handling marks are worthy of individual attention. Issued by Augustus Humbert when he was United States assayer of gold in California, which is plainly noted on the coin, these large "slugs" circulated freely owing to the accuracy of their gold content -- $50 dollars from Humbert was good for $50 anywhere in gold country. The present variety is the only 1852-dated $50 piece issued by Augustus Humbert, though he issued numerous types and varieties with the 1851 date, as illustrated by our extensive offerings in this sale. Similar pieces dated 1852 were issued by the United States Assay Office of Gold while under the auspices of Curtis, Perry, and Ward after the firm of Moffat & Co. was dissolved (see below). From the total number struck only a small number survive, perhaps 200 or so, with many showing extensive problems as these massive coins were prone to edge dents from even casual handling. Finding an example with abundant eye appeal and attractive surfaces is quite a challenge, the offered coin certainly a desirable representative of this cherished Territorial gold issue.
PCGS# 10217. NGC ID: ANGT.
From the Madrone Collection.