This is the first territorial coin that I have ever purchased. I bought it about three years ago from the steward of territorial knowledge David J. McCarthy (Donald H. Kagin colleague). I used the pairs scholarly documentation of the series (America's Golden Age: Private and Pioneer Gold Coins of the United States 1786-1862) as a photographic back drop.

This is a low ball coin grade.  When I looked this coin up using the PCGS certification verification software (available on Googles Play Store and on the Apple Store) I discovered that there were 8 graded VF 20 and only 3 of lower grade between 10 and 15.  Not bad for a low ball that straight graded. In hand there is toning in the fields and around the devices that only time can impart.  This is a heavy coin which explains the substantial dents and dings seen at the edge of the coin.  When this coin was dropped its weight didn't allow it to escape without a memorable bruise. 

As expected once you've experienced one of these beauties you look forward to your next opportunity to collect one of these monsters. With the passage of time these coins offer the collector a great opportunity to see an appreciation of price.  But as I've asserted in my earlier writings there is no guarantee that the coin will appreciate.  You have to buy the right coin.  The price may never be right.  You may will always feel that you over reached when it comes to the price you pay.  You may be right at the time.  But... as time passes the coin will catch up to the purchase price.  Just make sure of a few things: Buy from a trusted dealer.  Preferably one who specializes in the coins you are interested in. Use time as an asset.  Be prepared to wait for appreciation. There are many more pointers or recommendations that I won't include here except for one...Buy what you like.  

Speaking of "Buy what you like": Take a look at some of the following:

1851 $50 LE Humbert Fifty I thought this coin was under graded. The next step would be to send to CAC and preserve that OGH (Old Green Holder).

1851 $50 LE Humbert Fifty This is an example of perfection for the type which is not attainable for the average collector. It is from the Simpson collection and it shows.

1852 $50 Humbert Slug This is a transition coin.  As the government assay office took over this was the last Humbert slug.  The government assay office slugs look similar but they do not carry the name of "Humbert".