In 1921, Placer County purchased the five largest pieces in this collection for $3,506.00 from L.G. Garbe. This purchase insured the preservation of a raw sample of the element that brought so many people from around the world to Placer County. Between 1921 and 1959, the collection grew to include all 48 pieces now on display.
This collection is made up of 194.11 troy ounces of gold, all of it mined from Placer County soil. In 1996, the entire collection was appraised at $343,500.00 based on weight and historical relevance.
The Placer County Gold Collection is on permanent display inside the Gift Shop on the first floor of Auburn’s Historic Courthouse at 101 Maple Street. The Gold Collection is viewable everyday (except Holidays) from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. For more information about the Gold Collection, please call (530) 889-6500.