The semi-official coins of the Pacific coast present quite a glittering array of monetary enterprise, and signify the great wealth and daring spirit of that part of the world. The fifty-dollar octagon gold piece, issued in 1851, is a very beautiful coin. “Gold slugs” are novelties; are oblong gold pieces, and are valued at sixteen dollars. The Utah coins also attract attention. They are of gold, fine. The device is an “all-seeing eye” and two clasped hands; reverse, “a bee-hive,” with inscription, “Holiness to the Lord.” Some have for legend, “G. S. L. C. P. G.,” which the initiated receive as “Great Salt Lake City, Pure Gold.”
The series of the United States coins is complete, and can be readily examined. The changes have been very gradual. The motto, “In God we trust,” was introduced in 1866.
There is one specimen which illustrates how a coin may become famous without the least premonition, and also is a witness of the positive law which protects and governs coinage. A law passed Congress in 1849 ordering twenty-dollar gold pieces to be issued. One piece was struck. Something intervened to delay the work, and the year closed; then, of course, the dies had to be destroyed, as no more could be lawfully issued of 1849. The coin just beside this, marked 1850, of same value, is not worth the collector’s consideration, while “1849” cannot to be purchased. It is marked “unique,” and is really the only one in gold. One specimen exists in brass.
Coins of the Southern Confederacy.
It has been said and repeated as a historical fact that the Southern Confederacy had no metallic currency. After a lapse of eighteen years the following official document from the Confederate archives explains itself, and substantiates the fact that silver to a limited extent was coined at the New Orleans Mint by order of the Confederate Government, in the early days of the rebellion, and only suspended operations on account of the difficulty in obtaining bullion for coinage.
War Department, Adjutant General’s Office, Washington, March 27, 1879.
Dr. B. F. Taylor, New Orleans, La.
Dear Sir:—The enclosed circular will explain to you the nature of the duties upon which I am now engaged; I would like to have from you, from file with confederate archives, a letter stating when you were appointed Chief Coiner of the Confederate States Mint, instructions received copies of the originals of any official papers, sketches, descriptions, etc., of all the coins made, etc. This will make a valuable addition to Confederate history, and I know no one but you can give it.
Very truly yours,
MARCUS J. WRIGHT.