1861 $5 Clark Gruber, Copper DT, RB MS(PCGS#568813)

Spring 2025 Showcase Auction U.S. Coins

拍卖行

Stack's Bowers

批号

4842

等级

MS64RB

价格

46,304

详细说明

This visually appealing rarity displays original vibrant mint orange color that blends into pools of olive-brown patina, setting off the carefully struck design. The success of the initial 1860 series of coins from Clark, Gruber & Co. prompted the company to emit a new issue the following year. While the designs of the $2.50 and $5 remained essentially unchanged, the $10 and $20 dispensed with the Pike's Peak motif in favor of one more like the then-current federal equivalents. New dies were prepared and several copper trials were struck as well as some white metal pieces. As the new Territory of Colorado grew, the local populace desired a branch mint to provide coinage, as well as a bullion depository. On December 19, 1861, a bill to this effect was introduced in Congress by Hiram P. Bennett. The legislation passed the House and Senate and became effective on April 21, 1862. Around the same time, Clark, Gruber & Co. decided to sell their building and related facilities and equipment. On November 25, 1862, the Secretary of the Treasury offered $25,000, which was accepted. Congress passed a resolution on March 3, 1863 to obtain title to the facility, and possession was officially transferred in April though it would be 1906 before any regular issue coin was struck there. All told, Clark, Gruber & Co. minted a total amount of $594,305 in gold coin and a few trial pieces. All Clark, Gruber & Co. die trial pieces are of the highest rarity and desirability as important legacies of the West. Here is an opportunity not to be overlooked.