3.50 oz G.I. Beale, Assayer. Silver City, Nevada. Silver & gold assay ingot no. 1832, dated 1776-1876.
Appearance of Extremely Fine. A very attractive, highly polished, well made and nicely hand engraved presentation ingot. All sides still bright and somewhat reflective. Engraving worn in places, one side apparently deliberately defaced. The dual dates suggest this was made in celebration of the national centennial in 1876. This is a most handsome little bar whose study might yield more information about its maker than is presently known.
- Face: No. 1832 / G.I. BEALE. / ASSAYER / SILVER CITY / NEV. / OZ. 3.50 / F [to left between the next two] G .045 / S 939 / $[to left between the next two] G. 3.25 / S. 4.25/$7.50.
- Back: blank.
- Top side: 1876.
- Bottom side: 1776.
- Left side: G.I.B.
- Right side: J.C.B.
- Dimensions: 42.7 x 18.9 x 13.4 mm.
- Current weight: 111.1 gms.
From the John J. Ford, Jr. Collection
Provenance: Noted on Mr. Ford’s informational card accompanying the lot “Originally contained in a custom case, covered with ultra-thin maroon leather (decorated with fine cross hatched lines), and lined with pink silk; gilt lines on top of lid; brass hardware. In addition to ingot, case contained four 1876 coins, Trade Dollar, Half Dollar, Quarter, Dime (mintmarks or lack of same ascertained, but not recorded), and had space for an additional item at top (not present), and possibly two others (to be placed vertically on each side of row of coins). Case and contents purchased from Frank Rose, Toronto, Canada, 8/24/76, at A.N.A. Convention, N.Y.C.” Photographs also accompany the lot.
[10/2007] https://auctions.stacksbowers.com/lots/view/3-AV6K1/gi-beale-assayer-silver-city-nevada-silver-gold-assay-ingot-no-1832-dated-1776-1876 ($29,900)
5.70 oz G.I. Beale Silver Ingot
Despite this ingot’s worn and faded appearance, its historical significance and rarity shine through, making it a coveted piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Possibly Crafted by G.I. Beale Assayer, although it is unclear why this artifact stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and tradition of a bygone era.
Weight: 5.70 ozs
[06/2024] https://bidnow.vegascoindealer.com/Listing/Details/243614/GI-Beale-Assayer-Silver-Gold-Ingot