1854-Dated Cal. Gold Indian - Bear #2d Token Ms

Coin / United States of America / 1854 / Unknown / California & State Fractional Gold Tokens / Other / Varied

The coin in question is a piece from the series of California & State Fractional Gold Tokens, dating back to 1854. These tokens were issued during a time of economic uncertainty and were often utilized in local commerce, particularly in California where they were needed for transactions in the aftermath of the Gold Rush. Although specific specifications such as the diameter and weight are absent or marked as '0.00000000', which may indicate that the coin is either undocumented or perhaps a prototype, the historical significance of its year, 1854, stands out. This period marked a significant era in American history and the development of the economy in the western United States. The country of origin is noted as the United States of America, reflecting the token’s place in American numismatic history. The token has an unknown mint location, which is not uncommon for fractional gold tokens, since many were privately minted and may not have a specific mintmark. As for the denomination, it is categorized as 'Other / Varied’, suggesting that it may not correspond directly to recognized currency denominations, which is typical for tokens used in specific trade or local contexts. The production type indicates that the coin was a mint strike, emphasizing its intended use as currency or trade token rather than merely a collectible piece. However, the stated mintage is '0', which raises questions about its rarity and existence as a collectible. In summary, this 1854 California & State Fractional Gold Token holds considerable intrigue due to its unique historical context, although its physical characteristics remain unclear. A piece such as this might appeal to collectors interested in the fractional gold token market or the broader narrative of 19th-century American economic history.