California's tiny fractional gold pieces tell the story of the Gold Rush better than almost any other American issue, and this 1872/1 round quarter dollar is a standout example. Struck by private jewelers in San Francisco, these small gold coins filled a real need when federal small change was scarce in the West. This piece is the round Indian Head type cataloged as BG-870, and it shows a clear 1872 over 1871 overdate.

The obverse presents a left-facing Indian Head wearing a feathered headdress, ringed by stars and with the date below. Detail in the headdress and hair is bold for such a small planchet, and the star points are sharply defined. The reverse carries the 1/4 DOLLAR CAL. legend inside a finely engraved wreath, with strong device definition and complete lettering.

NGC graded this coin MS-67 PL, a lofty designation that recognizes both the high level of preservation and the reflective, prooflike fields. The surfaces are bright with warm yellow-gold color and no distracting marks. This is the finest known example of the issue, and the overdate adds another layer of collector interest. For those seeking a high-grade example of California fractional gold, this coin delivers. The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.

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