1865 1/2 dollar California gold question....

ormandh

I have a piece that I am having a hard time to figure out how to attribute. There is not a lot of info on the web for attribution, so I was hoping there was someone on the forums that could help me attribute the piece or point me in the direction for a value. I do not collect this area and am selling it for a customer on consignment. I really just need to know how to price it and at least know where to start. This is definitely not a post to sell, but one to figure out how to buy it at a fair price. This is way out of my realm, but look forwards to the education! And please make it a post for all California gold, by all means! Thanks for any input! -Dan

crazyhounddog

I don't know a whole lot about these little buggers, but I do know a little about this one, because I own it. I believe this is a very high grade with a proof like appearance. also a planchet clip... I need to send it in for grading....

This is the BG-828, high R-4.
Single bow, bar point to tip of top leaves.
One tiny fragment of upper lip is all that remains of mouth.
Longer vertical die crack from tail of "R".
Robert B. Gray & co. (1858-1871)
Located at 616 Merchant street San Francisco.

ormandh

That is definitely nicer than the one which I have posted! Thanks for sharing! -Dan

PonyPuller

Your 1865 1/2 Dollar Cal. Gold looks to me to be a BG-1005 listed on page 206 of the Breen & Gillio book.

Listed as a Low Rarity 5 (about 60 - 75 known). Made by Frontier & Co.

- Mark

ormandh

Nevermind, I see the periodical you got the info from. Thanks again. -Dan

crazyhounddog

Your 1865 1/2 Dollar Cal. Gold looks to me to be a BG-1005 listed on page 206 of the Breen & Gillio book...

The Breen and Gillio book is the one, I just couldn't remember the name....Thanks!!!! Make note to self....

That is definitely nicer than the one which I have posted! Thanks for sharing! -Dan

Not even the same date, just thought in some way it might help....

ormandh

PonyPuller thank you for the direction. I did not comprehend the info that you initially posted until I reread the post. Thank you very much for your input! It was a great help! -Dan

ormandh

Thanks for your help. I wish there was a better way to figure a fair price before buying it. I just want to be fair. I guess I could just consign it for 20%? -Dan

PonyPuller

A useful source for a value on these items is the Heritage Auctions website and their auction archives.
You can search the auction archives by the BG-1005 number and see what they've gone for in the past.

Deagle74

Hi - you got the info - BG book is the Bible on fractionals - but unfortunately quite expensive on the market (and not always easy to get).



Rok

thebeav

I've often been able to pick up holed examples, especially common varieties, for 40 bucks or so.......