BG-1129, 1876/5 California Fractional Gold $1, Indian Octagonal PCGS MS66PL R4

This superb Gem has deeply prooflike fields and bright yellow-gold devices. Well struck and visually exceptional, it was produced by Christopher Ferdinand Mohrig, a German-born San Francisco jeweler. Please review the photos of this special piece provided by AUCM. A specialist in California Fractional Gold would be proud to include this BG-1129 in his or her collection. 

PCGS has graded one example as MS66PL with none finer in Prooflike. Collectors Universe prices this variety at $5,500.00 in MS65.

The obverse displays a beautiful Indian head design. Inspired by, but not a slavish copy of the ubiquitous Indian Head cent, this example is an awesome miniature treasure. Thirteen stars surround the Indian head and the date 1873 is below. The reverse offers an elaborate wreath with berries, within which is found ‘1 DOLLAR.’ Above the wreath near the rim is ‘CALIFORNIA GOLD.’

On August 10, 1876, Mohrig was arrested by the Secret Service for violating the 1864 law against private coinage. His stock and dies were seized—and melted—which may explain the rarity of his varieties such as this one.

Chief Sitting Bull, wearing his eagle feather headdress, and Buffalo Bill Cody, in 1885. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.