Just a few to round out the “F” box. First we have Federated Bullion Company, which is one of my top 15 5 oz ingots that I own. I love this piece with the unique hallmark with cursive style font, to the incredible patina and pour lines. Hard not to love it. I’ve never seen another 5 like this, but only a 10 oz, which doesn’t quite have the appeal of this piece.
First American Bullion Company is affiliated and considered second general Bear Paw Mining. Very rich history behind these ingots and incredibly difficult to come by. The company mined silver and gold in Northwestern Montana and Northern Idaho. The original mines were in the Bear Paw Mountains of Montana. In the 1920’s, Bear Paw became 1st American Co-Op and then years later became Consolidated Silver (CS hallmark). These second and third gen bars like the one pictured above are known as “Baby Bear Paws.” If you have ever seen a Bear Paw ingot, you will notice “CWP” stamped on the bar. These are the initials of the founder C.W. Paulsen. All companies used the same equipment and molds. Lot number sequences are close from one gen to the next.
The next ingot is shared by Brian R., a regular contributor to the blog. In the 70s a number of companies, notable Rainbow Vacuum and TriStar Vacuum made ingots for their sales people and customers. These are generally in a 15 oz class and really neat pieces. Filterqueen is another and this bar is incredibly rare. I own a Rainbow vacuum bar and have seen 5 or so of the TriStar bars, but this is the only Filterqueen I’ve come across.
FG is another that is interesting, but not much known. I have looked at this one many times, and sometimes believe it could be “AG.” If we find out, we will certainly make an update here. Thanks Brian R. for this one, as well.
