1850 $5 Moffat & Co. AU55 认证号43894005, PCGS号10243

Ron Guth

Among the various Moffat issues, the 1850 $5 is the second most common -- after only the 1849 $5.  In fact, the finest Moffatt gold coin of any type is an 1850 $5 in a remarkable PCGS MS66, which places that particular coin among the finest of all California Pioneer gold.

The 1850 $5 Moffat mimics a regular 1850 U.S. Half Eagle.  The obverse features a Liberty head wearing a coronet bearing the words "MOFFAT & CO." instead of the usual "LIBERTY."  The reverse features an eagle with the wings spread just as on the regular-issue U.S. $5.  However, instead of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, the legend reads S.M.V. CALIFORNIA GOLD.  The Moffat gold coins enjoyed widespread circulation, respect, and acceptance, as opposed to many California gold coins that were of inferior weight and purity.

Mint State 1850 Moffat $5s are very rare, and circulated examples are scarce, but pricey.  Look for coins that have original "crust" and surfaces that are as clean and free of defects as possible.