An 1855 California gold coin, often referred to as a “Fractional Gold” or “Territorial Gold” coin, does not have a standard face value of “12 dollars”. The value of these coins, like other rare and historical pieces, depends heavily on factors like:
- Denomination: California fractional gold coins were minted in various denominations, such as Quarter Dollars, Half Dollars, One Dollar, Ten Dollars, and Twenty Dollars. The specific denomination significantly impacts the value.
- Condition or Grade: Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition will be worth substantially more than those in circulated condition. Professional grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) certify a coin’s condition and authenticate it, influencing its value. For example, an 1855-C Gold Dollar graded as AU58 by Rare Coin Wholesalers costs $17,000 . An 1855 Gold Dollar certified and graded by PCGS as MS60 by eBay – rarecoinwholesalersca costs $31,500 . Another 1855-D Gold Dollar certified and graded by PCGS as AU50 by L & C Coins costs $2,350.
- Rarity and Mint Mark: Some coins are rarer due to smaller mintages or specific variations (like different die varieties). Coins from private mints that operated during the California Gold Rush, such as Kellogg & Co. and Wass, Molitor & Co., can also be particularly valuable.
- Specific Type or Variety: Different varieties of 1855 California gold coins exist, including fractional gold pieces, tokens, and officially minted coins by private mints like Kellogg & Co. The specific type and any unique characteristics can influence the value. For example, an 1855 Octagonal Liberty Gold Dollar struck on an incomplete punched planchet is considered unique.
- According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, an 1855 Gold Dollar Coin in circulated condition is worth between $300 and $1,100, but can sell for as much as $175,000 in pristine, uncirculated condition.
- California Fractional Gold coins from 1855 can range in value from $38 to $12,375, depending on the grade.
- Identify the Denomination: Determine the face value, if it’s a fractional piece (e.g., 25 cents, 50 cents, etc.), or a larger denomination from a private mint.
- Determine the Condition: Consider having the coin professionally graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.
- Research Comparable Sales: Look for recent sales of similar 1855 California gold coins with the same denomination, condition, and any unique features, [according to Numiis].
- Consult with a Numismatic Expert: Consider seeking the opinion of an experienced coin dealer or numismatist for accurate valuation.
In conclusion, it’s important to clarify the specific details of an “1855 California gold 12 coin” before an accurate valuation can be provided. The value could range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars or more, depending on the factors listed above.
How much is a 1855 gold coin worth?
1855 Gold Dollar Coin Value
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of August 2025, a Gold Dollar Coin from 1855 in circulated condition is worth between $300 and $1100. However, on the open market 1855 Gold Dollars in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $175000.
How to tell if a gold coin is worth money?
At it’s simplest, working out how much a gold coin is worth will be based on its weight, gold purity and the gold spot price. Although many gold coins are assigned nominal face values, in reality they are worth considerably more in terms of their fine gold content.
How to spot fake California gold coin 1852?
Genuine early Fractional Gold will have the word “Dollar” or some other indication such as “Dol.” The coins come in both round and octagonal shapes, most often with either an Indian, Liberty, or Washington Head design on the obverse. If a date is present, it can be on either side.