Whitman Expo
1848 CAL. $2.50 Gold MS Values
Details
Often called America's first commemorative coin, the 1848 "CAL." reverse brought attention to the early (and prolific) mining of gold in California.
This coin is made of 90% gold; 10% silver & copper and has a current melt value of $555.89
Obverse: Christian Gobrecht's portrait of Liberty is surrounded by 13 stars with the date centered at the bottom.
Reverse: Heraldic eagle holding arrows and branch in its claws is centered in the design with the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA * @ 2 1/2 D. around the periphery. Mintmark (if any) is located under the eagle's claws.
Mint & Coinage Details
Mint Location:
Philadelphia
Mintage:
1,389
Coinage Type:
Gold Quarter Eagle
Coinage Years:
1839-1907
Composition:
90% gold; 10% silver & copper
Prefix:
Key Issue
Varieties and Classification
Variety:
CAL.
Physical Characteristics
Fineness:
0.9
Weight:
4.18 gr
Weight:
0.1344 oz
Precious Metal Weight:
0.121 oz
Strike Type:
Business
Diameter:
18 mm
Coin Shape:
Round
Design Details
Designer:
Christian Gobrecht
Obverse Lettering:
LIBERTY, 1848
Obverse Designer:
Christian Gobrecht
Reverse Lettering:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CAL., 2 1/2 D.
Reverse Designer:
Christian Gobrecht
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