BG-1109 1871 $1 PCGS XF40 OGH (Old Green Holder)

1871 California Fractional Gold $1 – BG-1109 – PCGS XF40 OGH (Old Green Holder)

This fascinating 1871 California Fractional Gold Dollar, cataloged as BG-1109, represents a colorful chapter in the history of America's western gold rush. Following the discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in 1848, privately issued fractional gold coins became an important part of California's early monetary history. With federally issued small-denomination coins often in short supply, private jewelers and coiners produced miniature gold pieces in denominations of 25 cents, 50 cents, and one dollar. The BG-1109 variety belongs to the later period of California fractional gold production, when many such pieces were manufactured primarily as souvenirs, keepsakes, and jewelry items rather than for everyday commerce. These tiny gold pieces remain highly collectible today, with individual varieties identified through the renowned Breen-Gillio reference system.

This example has been certified PCGS XF40 (Extremely Fine) and is housed in a desirable Old Green Holder (OGH), an earlier generation of PCGS certification holders prized by many collectors. The XF40 grade indicates a coin exhibiting moderate circulation wear while retaining strong overall design detail. Its combination of an early 1871 date, recognized Breen-Gillio attribution, and vintage PCGS holder adds considerable numismatic appeal. California fractional gold continues to attract collectors fascinated by the Gold Rush era, privately issued American coinage, and the remarkable craftsmanship required to produce these miniature gold treasures.

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