As long as the unique 1849 double eagle is in the Smithsonian, the 1848 CAL. $2.50 is the most desirable gold coin from the decade, in my opinion.
Retired dealer and avid collector of U.S. type coins, 19th century presidential campaign medalets and selected medals. In recent years I have been working on a set of British coins - at least one coin from each king or queen who issued pieces that are collectible. I am also collecting at least one coin for each Roman emperor from Julius Caesar to ... ?
@BillJones said:
As long as the unique 1849 double eagle is in the Smithsonian, the 1848 CAL. $2.50 is the most desirable gold coin from the decade, in my opinion.
Regarding the 1848 CAL, the role of James B. Longacre is a fascinating footnote. In his estate auction there were three proof like specimens that had been in his personal collection suggesting his personal involvement. While in the auction itself they were described as proofs (along with his 1850 proof like Double Eagle) the more recent view is that they were likely first strikes.
Comments
Mr_Spud
Gold stuck just below 1842 as I write.



https://www.pcgs.com/setregistry/gold/liberty-head-2-1-gold-major-sets/liberty-head-2-1-gold-basic-set-circulation-strikes-1840-1907-cac/alltimeset/268163
Looks like it’s now at 1843:
Mr_Spud
As long as the unique 1849 double eagle is in the Smithsonian, the 1848 CAL. $2.50 is the most desirable gold coin from the decade, in my opinion.
It certainly wins the popularity contest.
Regarding the 1848 CAL, the role of James B. Longacre is a fascinating footnote. In his estate auction there were three proof like specimens that had been in his personal collection suggesting his personal involvement. While in the auction itself they were described as proofs (along with his 1850 proof like Double Eagle) the more recent view is that they were likely first strikes.
@BillJones and quite a few others have damn near run the table.
Anyone have an image of my favorite, a Type of 1838 $10? Wholesome VF or better, ha ha
FR02
Lafayette Grading Set
1843 PO01
Lafayette Grading Set
jom
Waiting for $1895 so I can participate.