BG- 786, 1876 California Fractional Gold 25C, Indian Octagonal NGC MS66PL R6- Finest PL/Finest Known!

Here's one of those Top Pop examples of Fractional Gold coinage that specialists crave. The BG-786 employs the Indian Head obverse die of BG-785 and combines it with the reverse of BG-779.

This desirable collectible has been attributed to Herman J. Brand, a German native who had his shop at 230 Kearny Street in San Francisco. Brand was active in producing Fractional Gold pieces from 1873-1881. PCGS has graded 36 examples of BG-786, with none of them being awarded the PL designation. It is quite possible that from among those 36 there are resubmissions from collectors and investors alike. NGC has graded 12 of this variety, with 4 of them designated Prooflike. Two are graded MS66PL, making this specimen both the finest known and finest Prooflike available.

The Breen-Gillio book on Fractional Gold coinage. Photo: Heritage Auction Galleries.

Ron Guth writes, "BG-786 is listed as 'Low Rarity 6' in the Breen-Gillio reference, suggesting a surviving population of 'about 25 to 30 known.' ... this is a popular variety because of the Native American head on the obverse." Guth also tells us that "Gems are very rare..." The obverse carries the popular Indian Head with headdress facing left, surrounded by 13 stars. The date 1876, the year of our nation's Centennial Celebration, is under the bust of the Indian. The reverse presents a wreath, within it is 1/4 DOLLAR CAL. There is no mintmark for Herman J. Brand. All devices are sharply struck and help provide dramatic cameo contrast on this pristine prooflike specimen.