1853 Octagonal 25 Cents. BG-101. Rarity-5-. Liberty Head. MS-63 (PCGS). Splashes of orange-rose and pale yellow patina enliven a base of medium gold color for this attractive example. Satiny in finish with a boldly struck reverse, extensive rusting of the obverse die explains both the softer detail and rough texture (as made) on that side (BG Die State III). A positively choice example of what is thought to be the first Period I octagonal quarter minted for circulation in the heady days of the California Gold Rush. The <em>S.S. Winfield Scott</em>, which sank off the coast of California on December 1, 1853, yielded five examples of BG-101 when it was discovered and salvaged in the early 1960s. An impressive beginning to the extensive California small denomination gold offerings in this sale. From the Oregon Collection.
