The coin in question is a **California Fractional Gold** piece, specifically a **50¢ denomination**, minted in **1856** at the **Philadelphia** mint. It represents a notable example of the private minting practices that arose during the California Gold Rush, where small denomination gold coins were needed to facilitate trade in the absence of official currency. The coin is categorized as a **sub-type** of **Coins** in the **United States of America**. It is a **Mint Strike**, produced as a direct result of the demand for fractional currency to accommodate smaller transactions. While particular details regarding its dimensions such as width, height, and diameter are not applicable (noted as 0.00000000), it is characterized by its unique material, categorized under "Other". It is important to note that this coin does not bear a **mint mark**, indicating its production at the main Philadelphia mint facility. Crafted in the spirit of practicality during a time of economic adjustment, the **mintage** value recorded is **0**, suggesting it might be a unique or special issuance, possibly indicative of unusual circumstances surrounding its production. Overall, this piece embodies a rich era in American numismatic history, reflecting both the economic conditions of the mid-19th century and the distinct practices of private coinage during the California Gold Rush. Collectors and enthusiasts highly prize such coins for their historical significance and the stories they tell of a vibrant economic landscape in early America.
