The 1848 California Gold Rush led many Oregonians to return home with gold dust and nuggets, creating a need for standardized coinage. In response, the Oregon Exchange Company was established in 1849 to privately mint $5 and $10 gold coins.

Key Features of Oregon Gold Coins (1849)

• Denominations Issued:
  • $5 Gold Coin – 6,000 minted
  • $10 Gold Coin – 2,850 minted
• Privately issued in Oregon City after the territorial mint proposal was rejected as unconstitutional.
• Designed with a beaver on a log, symbolizing the Oregon Territory’s identity.
• Coins contained more gold than their face value, making them valuable for trade and melting.

Why Oregon Gold Coins Were So Rare

• No standardized alloy was used, but coins were intentionally overweight for acceptance.
• Mintage ceased in September 1849 after the mint’s crucibles broke.
• Most were sent to California for trade and later melted, leaving only a few surviving today.

Rarity & Collector Demand

• Oregon gold coins are exceptionally rare, as most were destroyed for their gold content.
• Only a handful of high-grade specimens exist, making them some of the most desirable territorial gold coins.

Shop Rare Oregon Gold Coins at ParadimeCoins.com

At ParadimeCoins.com, we offer certified Oregon gold coins, including rare $5 and $10 pieces from 1849. Own a piece of Oregon's numismatic history today!