1851 San Francisco State of California $10 Die Trial. K-3. Rarity-7-. Silver. Reeded Edge. MS-64 (PCGS).This handsome near-Gem is bathed in warm pewter gray patina with iridescent undertones of gold, blue and pink evident as the surfaces rotate under a strong light source. Fully struck from the rims to the centers with a smooth and inviting appearance. Although similar in overall rarity to their $2.50 and $5 counterparts, the $10 and $20 San Francisco State of California die trials appear at auction less frequently based on our experience and observation. Additionally, the two higher denominations employ a different design, the date moved to the obverse and the reverse featuring a rendition of the Arms of California: Minerva seated left holding a spear and gazing through the Golden Gate, a bear at her feet. The present sale offers many rare opportunities for the advanced collector of California Gold Rush and related coinage, this attractive $10 die trial worthy of serious bidder consideration.From the Samuel J. Berngard Collection.
