Lot 1128
1851 U.S. Assay Office $50 "slug", 887 THOUS. Reeded edge. PCGS graded VF-25. This is an unusual coin, it has two small counterstamped letters on the obverse, a "C" in the field below the tip of the eagle's left wing, and an upside down or backwards "D" under the tip of the right wing. If these were random counterstamps they would likely be placed together, rather than spread apart. What is curious is that C and D were used to signify CENTS and DOLLARS as abreviations on issues form this territorial mint. These counterstamped letters are very small, and were almost certainly added after the coin left the dies. As the coin clearly states FIFTY DOLLS on the lower obverse, it would be unnecessary to hand punch in the denomination below the wings, or anywhere else. Further, why was the "D" counterstamp upside down or backwards relative to the coin or the "C" counterstamp?
We may never know, but this is an interesting coin which may be worth researching. We asked our friend and noted Territorial gold specialist, Don Kagin about the counterstamp, and he said that he didn't recall seeing other examples.
The surfaces show moderate handling marks, and a few rim bumps expected for the grade. The bumps are located on the corners, as ususal. An impressive example of this popular issue.
Estimated Value $5,000 - 6,000.
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| Realized $6,900 |
