The Humbert ingot is a highly esteemed item in numismatics, being an octagonal coin with a face value of fifty dollars and manufactured in California between 1851 and 1852. The coins are renowned for their exquisite design and workmanship, as well as their considerable precious metal content, which has led them to feature regularly on expert rankings of the top ten or fifteen most valuable collectibles available. In 2008, a collection of commemorative coins paying tribute to the ingots was released as a limited edition and has since gained significant demand among collectors. Right now, BGASC has 2008 2.5 oz Proof Humbert Commemorative Octagon Gold Coins available to purchase online.

Highlights:

• Arrives in an NGC protective plastic slab!
• Released in 2008!
• Comes from an exclusive original mintage!
• Contains 2.5 Troy oz of .9999 pure gold.
• Struck with hand-crafted dies engraved by the famous artisan Ron Landis.
• Obverse side features an eagle with wings extended.
• Reverse side features a set of inscriptions.

Encased in a sturdy plastic container, the 2008 Proof Humbert Commemorative Octagon Gold Coin holds two-and-a-half Troy ounces of pure California gold. The coin’s label bears the certification of the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) and verifies its Gem Proof grade, which boasts a striking cameo finish with well-defined raised details contrasting against reflective backgrounds. While a few hairline scratches are visible outside of the prime focal areas, the overall presentation of the coin remains impressive.

Obverse

On the obverse side is an eagle with its wings spread and a rock and shield sitting behind it. This is surrounded by the lettering “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “PURE CAL. GOLD.” At the octagonal rim are the inscriptions “AUGUSTUS HUMBERT,” “UNITED STATES ASSAYER OF GOLD,” “CALIFORNIA,” and “1852.”

Reverse

The reverse field bears all of the identifying inscriptions of the coin. These include “HUMBERT GOLD INGOT,” “COMMEMORATIVE 2008,” “PURE CALIFORNIA GOLD,” and “2.5 OZ TROY 999.9 FINE,” with an abstract geometric pattern in the background.

History

In 1850, when California became a state of the United States, there was an urgent need to produce enough coins to support its growing economy. One of the key figures in the state’s coinage history was Augustus Humbert, the U.S. Assayer in San Francisco, who created the iconic octagonal ingots, also known as “slugs,” that now bear his name. The Humbert ingot’s unique shape, splendid visual design, and significant precious metal content make it a valuable numismatic artifact and a fitting subject for commemorative coinage. Today, the collectibles that pay tribute to the mid-19th century ingots are themselves highly coveted items, crafted using hand-engraved dies by modern artisan Ron Landis.

Ordering

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. BGASC customer service is available at 888-992-4272, online using our live chat, and via our email address.