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Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece
Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece (2)
Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece (3)
Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece (4)
Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece
Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece (2)
Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece (3)
Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece (4)

1853 Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece PCGS AU-53

Category: Territorial Gold Moffat & Co. $20 Gold Piece
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Moffat & Company, the most influential private mint during the California Gold Rush (1849–1856), survived five turbulent years by issuing gold ingots and coins amid a dust-based economy. Founded in June 1849 by assayer John Little Moffat—born 1788 in New York, a former silversmith with mining experience—the firm, partnered with J.R. Curtis, S.H. Ward, and P.H. Perry, began with $16 ingots (values $9.43–$3,000) to standardize circulation.

In August 1849, Bavarian engraver Albert Kuner cut dies for the first $10 gold coins, followed by $5 pieces that fall. By September 1850, Moffat affixed U.S. Assay stamps; in 1851, with U.S. Assayer Augustus Humbert, they produced $530,000 in $50 ingots (Jan–Apr) and crafted $10/$20 dies, though Treasury permission was briefly granted then revoked.

On February 12, 1852, authorization arrived for U.S.-stamped $10 (262 7/10 grains, .884 fineness) and $20 (525 4/10 grains) ingots. Moffat withdrew days later, renaming the firm Curtis, Perry & Ward. Yet, the iconic Moffat name persisted on the rare 1853-dated $20 gold piece, struck amid extensive 1852 production that ended shortages alongside rivals like Wass, Molitor & Co. As the Gold Rush's premier mint, Moffat's fame endured, despite Eastern scrutiny.


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‘’AU Capital Management, LLC is a leading supplier of rare coins, paper money and precious metals. Committed to authenticity, they strive to serve customers with high-quality goods they'll treasure..’’

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‘’AU Capital Management, LLC is a leading supplier of rare coins, paper money and precious metals. Committed to authenticity, they strive to serve customers with high-quality goods they'll treasure..’’

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