KELLOGG AND HUMBERT ASSAY INGOT OFFERED

In September, 1857, the side-wheel steamer, S.S. Central America, laden with freshly minted gold coins (primarily $20 double eagles) and other relics of the gold fields was caught in a hurricane off the coast of South Carolina, while making its way up the Atlantic en route from Panama to New York. The ship sank to the ocean floor and her precious cargo never made it to New York, exasperating the already weak economy. This week’s highlight from our New York Rarities Sale, being held on May 20, 2015 at Sotheby’s Galleries, comes from this recovered treasure.

The wreck was discovered in September 1988 by Tommy Thompson and the Columbus America Discovery Group. Using state of the art equipment, they located and recovered a large quantity of gold coins and ingots from the ocean floor. Among them was this impressive Kellogg & Humbert 45.19 ounce gold ingot.

Mr. Bowers penned a massive reference work on the history of the Gold Rush, with special focus on the S.S. Central America. A small number of “special editions” of this book were produced and given to those who purchased certain private ingots such as the Kellogg and Humbert example we are offering. For those interested in the history of the Gold Rush, no relic is more impressive than these large gold bars, and this fantastic reference book by Q. David Bowers. This is an important opportunity.

“Fully bright medium gold, the surface is free of any noteworthy imperfections. Close inspection reveals insignificant abrasions and a minor texturing that is more the result of the casting process than time spent at sea. The top of the ingot is stamped NO 854 with the name of the firm, KELLOGG / & / HUMBERT / ASSAYERS, within a rectangular box below. Midway down the bar is the weight, 45.19 OZ, followed by the fineness, 893 FINE, and the value in gold at the time of manufacture, $834.20. Considering that the current market price dictates a bullion value of nearly $54,000, much can be inferred about our economic change and growth over the past 150 years! Assuming medal-turn, the back side is also stamped 854 at the top, remaining otherwise blank. Housed in a clear acrylic case, the ingot is easily viewable from all sides and is thoroughly protected from harm.

“Also included with this ingot is a deluxe gilt and leather-bound copy of A California Gold Rush History by Q. David Bowers, complete with dust cover. Measuring 14 in. x 11 in. x 2.75 in., this incredible wealth of knowledge provides an insightful and entertaining narrative outlining the context and events surrounding the California Gold Rush of the mid 19th century. Using the fateful voyage of the S.S. Central America as a lens of discussion, the author guides you through why this era remains both an enchanting and important time in our nation's history. Numbered 340 of out 400 and containing a sample of gold dust recovered from the S.S. Central America integrated into the inside cover, this compilation is a perfect companion to this marvelous ingot. Both items are sure to be enjoyed and appreciated by generations to come!”