January 19th 2017 Premier Gold Rush
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/19/2017
Top of the knob handle has a stepped design leading to an octagonal brown gold quartz inlay. Quartz faceted gem cut. Quartz is in good condition with two small chips on the edge, usual hairline stress cracks. Has eight egg shaped protruding knobs surrounding the top of the handle below the stepped design. Below that are flat panels with the presentation "Alphonso Sterling presented by my oldest son". Alternating panels show floral and geometric engravings. The knob is in rose gold, below that is a yellow gold band, which is engraved with the following "The gold and quartz in this stick were mined at Sutter's Mills in 1853 by Byram D. Sterling. Made in San Francisco in that year and sent to my grandfather. Presented to John L. Johnston in 1940 by Albert M. Sterling." This presentation is historically very important as Sutter's Mills was one of the biggest of the gold rush mines. Stick is ebony with a black horn tip. Condition of the gold is used, the ovals are slightly dented, flattened and worn from having been bumped into things. All the engraving is sharp and clear with no wear.
Condition: (Very Good).
Item Dimensions: Overall: 36"L.