BG- 829, 1869 California Fractional Gold 25C, Liberty Round PCGS MS64 R5-

PCGS Population of 3 with none finer. A TOP POP coin. Collectors Universe priced at $1,700. There have been a total of 49 pieces graded by PCGS.

This striking piece was designed and produced in 1869 by the jewelry firm of Robert B. Gray and Company of San Francisco.

It was either the year 1858 or 1859 that saw Gray purchase the business of another San Francisco jeweler and fractional gold manufacturer, Antoine Louis Nouzillet, including all of his dies, hubs, and punches. Two years after this variety was struck, in 1871, Gray sold his own business interests to the California Jewelry Company.

Montgomery Street in San Francisco in the 1860s. The jewelry firm of Robert B. Gray and Company was located in this area.

The obverse carries the traditional Liberty head design that was inspired by the federal gold pieces of its time. Thirteen stars surround the Liberty head. The mintmark 'G' is below, for Gray & Company. The reverse presents a cereal wreath open at the top and tied neatly at the bottom. Within the wreath above is a shield with 1/4 within it. Below is found DOLLAR 1869.