1854 G50C BG-1311 (Regular Strike)
Obverse & Reverse
The 1854 G50C BG-1311 is a fascinating yet frequently misunderstood entry in the canon of California small denomination gold. Unlike the 'Period One' (1852-1857) issues which were struck by jewelers and assayers in San Francisco to alleviate a chronic shortage of small change during the Gold Rush, the BG-1311 is not a product of that era. Numismatic research, principally by Walter Breen and Ronald J. Gillio, identifies this variety as a later-day copy of a genuine Period One piece, specifically the BG-305. These copies, often categorized as 'Period Three' issues, were fabricated from the 1880s into the early 20th century, long after the original economic necessity for fractional gold had vanished with the ample output of the San Francisco Mint. The original Period One coins, though often underweight, served a genuine transactional purpose in the boomtown economy. Their production was a direct response to the impracticality of using gold dust for minor purchases and the scarcity of federal silver and copper coinage on the West Coast. By the 1880s, however, the character of fractional gold had shifted. The romanticism of the '49ers had taken hold, and the tiny gold pieces became popular as souvenirs, jewelry, and collector's items. Enterprising individuals, some using new dies and others employing original, rusted, or muled dies, produced a plethora of pieces to meet this new demand. The BG-1311 falls squarely into this latter category. It is an imitation, created to look like a historic Gold Rush coin for a nostalgic market. Its existence speaks more to the enduring legacy of the Gold Rush than to the economic realities of the 1850s. The '1854' date is purely imitative, a fiction designed to evoke the earlier period. Study of die states and metallurgy confirms its later origin. The existence of known variants in brass (BG-1311C), lead (BG-1311A), and white metal (BG-1311B) further cements its status as a piece likely created for experimental or novelty purposes, far removed from the desperate commercial needs of Gold Rush San Francisco.
Associated EventCalifornia Gold Rush (as a commemorative or souvenir piece)
Reason For MintingTo be sold as a souvenir or collectible imitation of an earlier, historic Gold Rush era coin.
Minter HistoryThe minter of BG-1311 is anonymous. This is typical for 'Period Three' souvenir and copy pieces, which were often produced by jewelers or novelty makers whose identities are now lost to history. Unlike some Period One assayers who placed their initials or names on their work, the makers of these later copies were creating facsimiles and had no incentive to identify themselves.
Historical SignificanceThe BG-1311's significance lies not in its use as currency, but as a numismatic artifact that demonstrates the transition of fractional gold from utilitarian coinage to collectible memorabilia. It is a physical echo of the Gold Rush, reflecting a later generation's fascination with that formative period in California history. It serves as an important study piece for distinguishing between original issues and the many souvenir pieces, copies, and counterfeits that permeate the series.
N/A
Denomination50 Cents
Minting PeriodCirca 1883-1910s (Dated 1854)
Assayer/MinterAnonymous
Geographic OriginUnited States (Likely California)
Obverse DescriptionThe design is a copy of the BG-305 obverse. It features a Liberty Head facing left, her hair tied in a bun. She is surrounded by thirteen stars, representing the original colonies. The date '1854' appears below the truncation of the neck. The execution of the engraving is typically cruder and less refined than on the original Period One pieces it imitates.
Obverse Inscription1854
Reverse DescriptionThe reverse is also a copy of BG-305. A simple wreath, open at the top, encircles the denomination '1/2'. The legend 'CALIFORNIA GOLD' appears around the wreath along the upper portion of the periphery.
Reverse InscriptionCALIFORNIA GOLD 1/2
CompositionGold (of variable fineness), with known trial pieces in Brass, Lead, and White Metal.
Stated Fineness Actual FinenessOften low, and highly variable. Not intended to meet a specific monetary standard.
Weight0.25 grams
Diameter10.00 mm
EdgePlain
Unknown. Struck over a period of years based on demand.
Survival EstimateScarce. While a copy, it is still a 19th or early 20th century piece and is collected alongside other Period Three issues. Exact numbers are unknown, but likely fewer than 50-75 exist across all metallic compositions.
Rarity ScaleR-5 (21-30 known in gold)
The BG-1311 appeals to specialists in California fractional gold who seek to build comprehensive collections, including the many later-period copies and souvenir pieces. It serves as an educational tool and a tangible link to the late 19th-century nostalgia for the Gold Rush. The variants in other metals (brass, lead, white metal) are particularly prized by specialists.
Key VarietiesBG-1311: The primary variety, struck in gold. BG-1311A: Struck in Lead, likely as a trial piece or die trial. BG-1311B: Struck in White Metal, also considered a trial or pattern piece. BG-1311C: Struck in Brass, another variant likely for trial or experimental purposes. These non-gold variants are extremely rare.
Authentication TipsAuthentication hinges on distinguishing it from the coin it copies, the BG-305, and from modern forgeries. Look for softer, less detailed engraving and strike characteristics typical of later copies. The die work is noticeably inferior to original Period One issues. Planchets may show parallel striations or have a different 'look' to the gold than the rich, often reddish color of true Gold Rush pieces. Any piece matching this die variety should be understood as a copy, not a Period One original. Reference the die characteristics detailed in the Breen-Gillio guide.
Shopping ConsiderationsWhen purchasing a BG-1311, a buyer is acquiring a historic copy, not a circulation piece. Value is based on its own merits within the 'Period Three' collecting specialty. Look for a well-struck example that clearly shows the die characteristics. Original, undisturbed surfaces are paramount, as these pieces are often found harshly cleaned or polished due to their use in jewelry. Avoid examples with significant rim bumps, scratches, or evidence of being mounted. The distinction between this and a BG-305 is critical; a seller should clearly identify it as BG-1311. A certified example from PCGS or NGC is highly recommended to confirm the attribution.
A coin's grade is its condition, rated on a 1-70 scale. For rare coins, this is the most critical factor in determining value, as a tiny difference in preservation can mean a huge difference in price.
Relevant Grade TypesAs the BG-1311 was never intended for circulation, the concept of 'circulated grades' (1-58) is less applicable than for Period One issues, though some may show wear from handling or use as jewelry. Most are found and graded in Mint State (MS, 60-70). No original proofs were created; however, the pieces themselves have a 'prooflike' character at times due to the striking process. The variants in lead, brass, and white metal are typically classified as trial pieces or patterns.
Mint State CharacteristicsAn ideal Mint State example would exhibit a sharp strike for the variety, though a certain softness in the details is inherent to the dies. Luster is often more subdued and satiny compared to the vibrant, frosty luster of well-made federal coins. Small planchet flaws, fissures, or striations are common and may not detract significantly from the grade if they are as-made. Contact marks are the primary determinant of grade, with cleaner examples commanding significant premiums.
Circulated Wear PatternsWhile not intended for circulation, wear from handling would first appear on the highest points: the hair above Liberty's eye and ear, and the leaves in the wreath on the reverse. The high points of the letters and numbers in the legends would also show friction first. Heavy wear from use as a pocket piece or in jewelry would result in a flattening of the entire design and loss of detail.
Key Factors For ValueThe primary driver of value for a BG-1311 is its status as a recognized Breen-Gillio variety. After attribution, grade is the most important factor. Surface quality is key; an example with original, uncleaned surfaces is far more desirable than a brighter, cleaned piece. Strike clarity, while often weak, adds to the eye appeal. Given the confusion in the series, professional certification by PCGS or NGC that correctly identifies the BG-1311 variety is essential for market acceptance and realizing the coin's full value.