Issued by Augustus Humbert when he was United States assayer of gold in California, which is plainly noted on the coin, these large "slugs" circulated freely owing to the accuracy of their gold content -- $50 dollars from Humbert was good for $50 anywhere in gold country. The present variety is the only 1852-dated $50 piece issued by Augustus Humbert, though he issued numerous types and varieties with the 1851 date. Similar pieces dated 1852 were issued by the United States Assay Office of Gold while under the auspices of Curtis, Perry, and Ward after the firm of Moffat & Co. was dissolved. From the total number struck only a small number survive, perhaps 200 or so, with many showing extensive problems as these massive coins were prone to edge dents from even casual handling. Finding an example with abundant eye appeal and attractive surfaces is quite a challenge.

The example to the left was sold by Stack's Bowers Galleries in May 2019 Baltimore Auction, where it realized $38,400.