United States of America 1853 N/A California Fractional Gold 25¢

Coin / United States of America / 1853 / N/A / California Fractional Gold / 25¢ (Twenty Five Cents, Quarter)

The coin in question is a California Fractional Gold piece, specifically a 25¢ denomination, minted in the year 1853. This type of coin was produced during the California Gold Rush to facilitate transactions in areas where gold was the primary medium of exchange, yet official U.S. coinage was scarce. Key characteristics of this coin include its denomination of a quarter dollar (25¢), and its mintage is noted as zero, which suggests that it may not have been officially struck in a significant quantity or may carry a specific rarity status. The properties indicate that it does not have a mint mark and lacks specific measurements for dimensions like width, height, diameter, and weight. This could imply that the exact specifications are not documented, which is common for many historical coins. The coin is categorized under the broader series of California Fractional Gold, which used gold alloy materials in its production, though the specific material is listed as "Other." The coin’s design does not attribute to a known designer and is part of the broader issue of 19th-century coins produced for commerce in California. Overall, this 1853 California Fractional Gold piece is a fascinating example of early American coinage that reflects a unique economic context during a transformative period in U.S. history. Its value can vary significantly based on its rarity, condition, and collector interest within the larger numismatic market.