1852 Sterling Silver California Slug Souvenir Spoon Made with an Impression of an Octagonal United States Assay Office of Gold $50 in the Bowl. Nearly As Made.5.5 inches. 27.24 grams. A large souvenir serving spoon with the image of an eagle-topped shield flanked by two male figures at the top of the stem, and the inscription SAN FRANCISCO vertically, near the bowl. Other than the incuse STERLING stamp, the back of the spoon is plain and void of decoration. The 2-inch bowl bears an exacting reproduction of a United States Assay Office of Gold $50 slug. The representation of the slug is very close to the K-14 type, but with KUNER E added below the eagle. This piece is richly and originally toned throughout in antique pearl and steel-gray. Probably made circa 1915 in connection with the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco. A scarce item that would make an impressive addition to any collection of territorial gold coins or Western memorabilia.
