1852 "887" $50 RE Augustus Humbert MS(PCGS#10217)

1852 "887" $50 RE Augustus Humbert MS (PCGS#10217)

The June 2010 Baltimore Auction

Lot Description: 1852 Augustus Humbert $50 Gold. Reeded Edge. K-11. Rarity-5. 887 THOUS. AU-55 (PCGS). Simply put, this is one of the nicest, most eye-catching examples of the type ever to cross this cataloger's desk. The quality of strike that we see in this piece is of particular note, both sides overall bold to include more-or-less clear definition to the lettering around the obverse border. The reverse periphery is also quite sharp, and only in the center of the obverse do we see the typical softness of detail for the type. Wear is minimal and confined to the higher elements of the design, and it has also left flickers of original luster that are discernible on both sides with the aid of a good light source. Scattered abrasions and a few shallow rim bruises are commensurate with the type, and they are surprisingly inconspicuous for a lightly circulated $50 gold piece from the California Gold Rush era. A handsome coin that is worthy of a premium bid.