United States of America 1852 Philadelphia California Fractional Gold $10 (Ten Dollars)

Coin / United States of America / 1852 / Philadelphia / California Fractional Gold / $10 (Ten Dollars)

The coin in question is a remarkable example of California Fractional Gold, minted in Philadelphia in the year 1852. This coin carries a denomination of $10 (Ten Dollars) and is composed of gold, reflecting the wealth and resourcefulness of the time. It is a special production type, distinguishing it from regular currency, and it does not have a mint mark, indicating it was produced in Philadelphia without a specific branch designation. California Fractional Gold coins were created during the California Gold Rush to provide smaller denominations for everyday transactions, as standard government coinage was often scarce in the region at that time. Although this coin is categorized under the type "Coins," it is considered part of a unique subset designed to serve the needs of miners and settlers who required fractional currency. Notably, this piece features a diameter and weight that are unspecified, emphasizing its unique collectible nature rather than its physical attributes. The design details provided do not include a known designer or edge type, indicating that its aesthetics may not follow traditional coinage styles. With a mintage noted as zero, this suggests that the coin could be a rare example, potentially indicating a limited release or an unusual status within the collectible market. Overall, this rare 1852 California Fractional Gold coin serves as a historical artifact, representing a significant period in American history, particularly in the context of the Gold Rush and the evolution of local currency systems.