Help from assayer expert?

coinlieutenant · July 23, 2008 1:40PM

I came across a Parsons and CO silver bar. It is small...about 1 oz in total weight.

The "obverse" says:

PARSONS&CO
ASSAYERS
COL
---1860---

The "reverse" says:

CARAT EWT
10 . 25

I assume it is Estimated Weight?
Any ideas as to value/rarity? Pretty esoteric....

Thanks in advance.

John

coindeuce · July 23, 2008 2:16PM

I believe that the second abbreviation on the reverse is actually DWT, the abbreviation for pennyweight.
Possibly 25 pennyweight of .416 fine silver. 20 DWT = 1 troy oz.____ 10(K)CARAT = .416 Fine

Dr. John D. Parsons set up shop in Colorado near the town of Tarryall in Park county. Very little is known about his operation though in 1861 he minted 2 1/2 dollar and 5 dollar coins which today are very rare. This emergency money had similar use as the private issue pieces that were minted during the California Gold Rush days of 1849-1857.

Lakesammman · July 23, 2008 2:17PM

PM Sent....

coinlieutenant · July 23, 2008 2:18PM

CD,

I louped it...you nailed it DWT. Cool. I have at least learned something neat from it.

Thanks!

J

firstmint · July 23, 2008 2:19PM

According to Don Kagin's book on the subject of Private Gold, p.322 -

Specie Ingot... "Many false pieces in base metal exist".

Nuf' said.

CaptHenway · July 23, 2008 3:19PM

Very common in replica form.
TD

coinlieutenant · July 23, 2008 3:47PM

Thanks guys...

Help from assayer expert?

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