1853 G25C BG-101 MS(PCGS#10370)

February 2026 Showcase Auction - The James A. Stack, Sr. Collection Part II

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

24051

Grade

AU55

Price

1,680

Lot Description

Splashes of reddish-rose patina enliven a base of warm honey-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). Several faint scratches on the revere are noted for accuracy, but generally require magnification to discern. This 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. <em>Winfield Scott</em>, 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.