2-888-379 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Lump of Gold from California - value £500, 1850. 'This "big lump" of gold is pronounced by competent judges to be not only the largest, but the finest specimen yet brought to England. Its weight, with quartz, is 14½ lb. troy...This wondrous product of the Californian dorado may be seen at Mr. Limbird's, No. 143, Strand [in London]...It was procured from the Auburn Diggings, near the North Fork...It is owned, we understand, by V. F. Perkins, Esq., of Maine...Its intrinsic value is, at least, 2000 dollars; but the holders have been offered 3000 and 3200 for it. They decline selling, however; preferring the chances of making a good thing by it, in taking or sending it home'. From "Illustrated London News", 1850.