BG-1203, 1870 California Fractional Gold $1, Liberty Round PCGS MS63

This desirable variety was produced by the jewelry firm of Robert B. Gray and Company of San Francisco in 1870. PCGS has graded 8 as MS63 with 3 finer. Collectors Universe prices this variety at $5,250.00 in MS63. For detailed information about this piece, please see below this listing.

Please note the distinct 'G' mintmark for Gray on the obverse. The obverse has a detailed, professionally crafted Liberty head design, inspired by the federal gold dollar of its time, but with touches that are unique to Gray and Company. The reverse has ‘CALIFORNIA GOLD’ at the top near the rim. Inside a wreath with berries is ‘1 DOLLAR.’ A nice touch is the two leaves that appear to be pointing to the ‘1’.

All in all, the diesinker for Gray and Company did a superb job. Their shop was located at 616 Merchant Street. It was either during the year 1858 or 1859 that Gray purchased the establishment of another San Francisco jeweler and fractional gold manufacturer, Antoine Louis Nouzillet, including all of his dies, hubs, and punches. The year after this variety was produced, in 1871, Gray sold his enterprise to the Levinson Brothers/California Jewelry Company. 

The California Theater in San Francisco, circa 1870, the year Gray and Company struck this offering from AUCM. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.