In the grand tapestry of American numismatics, few relics evoke the untamed spirit of the Gold Rush quite like the monumental $50 gold “slugs” struck by Augustus Humbert for the United States Assay Office in San Francisco. These weighty treasures, each laden with nearly 2.5 troy ounces of gleaming gold, are the giants of the collecting world-bold, brash, and breathtaking in their sheer presence.
Most were lost to time, sacrificed in the smelters of commerce, recast into bars or converted at the San Francisco Mint. So, when one appears at auction, it’s as though a living legend has stepped out from the mists of history-especially when it arrives in Mint State condition, its features undiminished by age or handling.
With due fanfare, Stack’s Bowers Galleries is presenting a spectacular example of the 1851 Humbert $50 “slug” with the 880 THOUS. Target Reverse and reeded edge (Kagin-5), listed as lot 11374 in their upcoming May 2025 Showcase Auction. Graded MS62 by NGC, this specimen belongs to an exclusive circle-only three other pieces share this lofty grade, and just one, graded MS62+, rises above it in the registry of top-tier grading firms.
“A subtle olive hue lies beneath a glowing honey-gold surface, the luster rich and frothy, reminiscent of a sun-drenched field at first light. The strike is impressively sharp-almost biting in its precision-though there’s a touch of softness at the central obverse, a trait typical for the issue. Yet the legends at the rim are crisp and lyrical, etched with the grace of calligraphy. The edges are remarkably clean, unmarred by the usual knocks or bruises. Free of any major flaws, and showing only the faintest of hairlines, this coin earns its MS62 rating with pride, radiating a rare kind of beauty-like a desert blossom blooming against all odds.”
Far more than a simple coin, this Humbert $50 piece is a gleaming link to a time of wild ambition and western dreams. Its rarity is rivaled only by its condition, calling to collectors who seek not just gold, but the legends behind it.
The May Showcase Auction-boasting nearly 375 exceptional lots-is open for viewing at StacksBowers.com. Lose yourself in the high-resolution images, read the vivid catalog entries, and prepare your bids for a collecting adventure that echoes the thrill of the 1850s Gold Rush.
FAQs
Why is the 1851 Humbert $50 Slug so valuable?
Its origin during the California Gold Rush, substantial gold weight, and extreme rarity-especially in Mint State-make it a prized artifact.
What does MS62 mean?
MS62 denotes a well-preserved Mint State example, with vibrant luster and minimal marks. Only four are graded this high or better by NGC.
How do I place a bid?
Register at StacksBowers.com, navigate to lot 11374, and submit your bid in the May 2025 Showcase Auction.
What other treasures are in the auction?
Explore nearly 375 curated lots, including rare coins and historic pieces-each with its own story to tell.
Is buying this coin a good investment?
While all collectibles carry market risks, the Humbert slug’s rarity and condition offer exceptional appeal for serious collectors.
