Obverse Description

Designs vary as they were experimental, but they are primarily developmental versions of the famous 'Pikes Peak' coinage. The most notable design features a stylized depiction of Pikes Peak, often with a forest at its base. The firm's name is typically arched above the central vignette. Some trial pieces may be uniface or feature only partial design elements.

Obverse Inscription

Typical inscriptions include 'CLARK, GRUBER & CO.' or 'PIKES PEAK GOLD' and the denomination, such as 'TEN D.' or 'FIVE D.'. Variations exist where certain elements are omitted as part of the die trial process.

Reverse Description

The reverse designs for the coinage patterns feature a heraldic eagle, closely modeled on the contemporary federal gold coinage of Christian Gobrecht. The eagle clutches an olive branch and arrows, with a shield on its breast. Some trial pieces are uniface and thus have a blank or incuse brockage reverse.

Reverse Inscription

Inscriptions on the reverse are generally absent, with the design elements themselves conveying the national identity. The motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' appears on a scroll held in the eagle's beak on some designs.

Composition

Varies significantly. Strikings are known in gold, silver, copper, brass, and white metal, reflecting their experimental nature. Restrikes were primarily made in copper.

Denomination

Patterns and trials for $2.50, $5, $10, $20

Stated Fineness

Not explicitly stated on the patterns themselves. The goal for the gold patterns was to match or exceed the standard of their circulating coinage, which was advertised as being of higher purity than federal issues.

Actual Fineness

Not applicable for base metal trials. The rare gold patterns would have been struck from the same refined gold stock intended for their circulating coins, which was known to be of high purity.

Estimated Mintage

Mintages were not recorded and were exceptionally small by design. Most known varieties are unique or have only 2 to 5 known examples.

Survival Estimate

Survival rates for pieces originally struck are likely high, as they were never intended for circulation and were preserved from the outset by the minters or early numismatists. The population is small simply because very few were ever made.

Rarity Scale

Virtually every piece in this series is a major numismatic rarity, ranging from R-7 (4-12 known) to R-8 (Unique or 2-3 known). There are no common examples.

Collector Appeal

These pieces represent the 'birth' of an iconic and beloved Territorial series. Their appeal lies in their extreme rarity, direct connection to the design process, and the historical narrative of the Pikes Peak Gold Rush. They are ultimate prizes for the advanced specialist.

Key Varieties

Varieties are defined by Kagin number, denomination, and metallic composition. Major examples include: K-15 ($10 Pikes Peak Pattern in Gold and Copper), K-16 ($20 Pikes Peak Pattern in Copper), K-17 ($2.50 obverse die trial in Copper), K-19 ($5 obverse die trial in Copper and White Metal), and K-21 ($20 reverse die trial in Copper).

Kagin #

K-15 to K-21

Authentication Tips

Authentication is paramount and requires expert consultation. Key diagnostics include precise die markers, the specific style and placement of the letter punches, and the character of the strike. The 'surfaces' of genuine pieces should be consistent with 19th-century striking technology, even if the strike is weak. Counterfeits often have incorrect details, tooling marks, or a cast appearance. Comparison with plates in auction catalogs of major named collections (Eliasberg, Norweb, Garrett) is essential.

Shopping Considerations

For this series, a 'good value' is the opportunity to acquire any genuine piece. The concept of a bargain is largely irrelevant. A 'premium quality' example is one with a sharp strike for the issue, minimal post-striking impairments, and attractive, original surfaces. The most critical factor beyond the coin itself is its provenance; a documented chain of ownership from a legendary collection can add significantly to its value and desirability.

Grading Overview

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 Types

All examples are classified as either Patterns, Die Trials, or Restrikes. None were made as business strikes for circulation, nor were they official 'proofs.' They are typically graded on the Mint State (MS) scale, reflecting their uncirculated nature, but often with a qualifier noting their trial status.

Mint State Characteristics

Quality in these uncirculated pieces is judged by the sharpness and completeness of the strike, which can be highly variable as these were experimental. Luster can range from brilliant to prooflike, especially on the copper restrikes. The absence of distracting marks, scratches, or corrosion is critical for achieving a high grade.

Circulated Wear Patterns

Not applicable. These pieces never circulated. Any wear-like appearance is considered post-striking damage or impairment and will be noted by grading services.

Key Factors for Value

The value of a Clark, Gruber & Co. pattern is a function of four main elements: 1) Absolute Rarity (uniqueness or population is paramount), 2) Metallic Composition (gold examples command multiples of their copper counterparts), 3) Historical Significance (a trial for a famous design is more desirable than an obscure one), and 4) Provenance (a pedigree to a collection like Eliasberg, Garrett, or Norweb provides an unimpeachable history and adds immense value).