1853-dated California Gold Token, Arms of California – Wreath #5, Round, ~11.5–11.7 mm, NGC MS-64.
This matches Mike Locke’s CalGoldCoin.com classification under Wreath #5 (slender laurel wreath with paired leaves and berries, “CALIFORNIA” above and “* GOLD *” below, date in the center). The obverse features the Arms of California (Minerva, bear, etc.). Diameter of ~11.5 mm places it in the typical round half-size range. These are private California jeweler-made souvenir tokens (often gilt or low-fineness gold), not circulating fractional gold.
The Arms of California is the official state seal featuring the goddess Minerva (symbolizing wisdom), a grizzly bear at her feet, a miner, ships, and mountains, with the motto “Eureka.” On the tiny California gold tokens, this design is simplified but still called the Arms of California by collectors.
| Product ID | 558492 |
|---|---|
| Year | 1853 |
| Mint Mark | dated |
| Strike | Business |
| Grade | MS-64 |
| Variety | Arms of California, Wreath #5, Round, 11.5mm |
| Grading Agency | NGC |
| Specification properties | No |
| Serial | 4838129-001 |
| Status | Active |
| Designation | - |
| Additional Info | - |
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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..’’
‘’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..’’
‘’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..’’
‘’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..’’