The term "1851 $50 Humbert" does not correspond to a widely recognized or established concept in numismatics, historical currency, or related academic fields based on currently available reliable sources. It appears to reference a specific coin or monetary instrument, potentially from the mid-19th century United States, but no authoritative documentation confirms the existence of an officially minted $50 coin from 1851 associated with the name "Humbert."
Overview:
In U.S. coinage history, the federal government did not produce a $50 gold coin in 1851. During the mid-19th century, the largest denomination regularly minted was the $20 double eagle. However, during the California Gold Rush, private assay offices and mints produced territorial or provisional gold coins. One notable figure was Augustus Humbert, a German-American assayer and metallurgist appointed by the U.S. federal government in 1852 to oversee federal bullion operations in San Francisco. Humbert authorized the production of $50 and $10 gold ingots in a distinctive octagonal shape, stamped "United States of America / Augustus Humbert / Assayer of Gold / F.C. / 1852–1854." These were not coins in the traditional sense but rather certified gold ingots used as currency.
Etymology/Origin:
The term combines the year 1851, a denomination of $50, and the surname "Humbert," likely referring to Augustus Humbert. However, Humbert’s official role began in 1852, and the earliest known issues bearing his name are dated 1852. Therefore, a "1851 $50 Humbert" would predate his federal appointment and documented production. Accurate information is not confirmed regarding any such item from 1851.
Characteristics:
If referencing Humbert’s later octagonal $50 ingots (1852–1854), these typically weighed approximately 837.3 grains (about 54.2 grams) of .900 fine gold and were inscribed with his title and the denomination. These were legal instruments in the transfer of gold bullion but not legal tender coinage. No known octagonal or round $50 pieces are officially attributed to Humbert in 1851.
Related Topics:
- Augustus Humbert
- California fractional gold
- Private gold coinage in the United States
- United States Assay Office (San Francisco)
- Gold Rush era currency
- U.S. gold dollar
- Double eagle ($20 gold piece)
Conclusion:
The term "1851 $50 Humbert" does not refer to a verified historical issue or recognized numismatic item. The combination of the date 1851 and the name Humbert in connection with a $50 denomination lacks documentation in established numismatic catalogs or historical records. Accurate information is not confirmed, and the term may result from misattribution, confusion with later Humbert issues, or speculative sources.