1853-FD Octagonal 50 Cents. BG-302. Rarity-4-. Liberty Head, Small Eagle or "Peacock" Reverse. MS-65 (NGC).A gorgeous bright gold example with satin to semi-prooflike surfaces. Boldly struck and expertly preserved, there is much to recommend this coin to the advanced specialist. One of the most popular California small denomination gold types, BG-302 features the famous "Peacock" reverse. Since at least three examples were discovered with the wreck of the <em>S.S. </em><em>Winfield Scott</em>, lost at sea in December 1853, and most survivors are circulated to one degree or another, we can conclude that this type was actually intended for commercial use. As such, Mint State examples such as this are understandably rare and eagerly sought by advanced collectors.From the Collection of Carril Valparaiso.
