Numismatic

1872 Washington Octagonal 25 Cent Gold MS-63 NGC (BG-722)

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During the early 1870s, unique private gold pieces circulated in the American West. Among these intriguing relics is the 1872 Washington Octagonal Quarter Dollar Token, a fractional gold issue produced by the partnership of Frontier and Bellemere. This specific token belongs to a brief issuance period spanning from 1871 to 1875, representing a fascinating chapter in regional monetary history. Crafted from gold with a weight of approximately 0.0121 troy ounces, this eight-sided piece features a distinct profile of George Washington on its obverse, accompanied by the clear date of 1872. This combination of an octagonal shape and a presidential portrait makes it a standout design among California fractional gold tokens. This specimen has survived the decades in remarkable preservation, certified in Mint State 63 (MS-63). It is a highly elusive piece of history, with an estimated mintage of only 150 to 200 pieces, making it a scarce find for those exploring the diverse world of early American private coinage.