Undated (1837-1842) Christopher Bechtler $2.50. K-13. Rarity-6. 70.G., 20 CARATS. MS-61 (PCGS). CAC.Light satin luster blends with pale golden yellow patina to provide superior eye appeal for this rare and conditionally challenging type. Smartly impressed devices throughout, the surfaces uncommonly well preserved with no singularly mentionable handling marks. Christopher Bechtler and his son Augustus and nephew Christopher, Jr. operated their own private mint in Rutherfordton, North Carolina from 1830 to 1852. The coins were struck at two sites, one at their home in Rutherfordton and another near their mine just north of town. They also produced the United States first gold dollar in 1831. Originally housed at the American Numismatic Society Museum, the coin press and several of the dies are currently on display at the Bechtler House Museum in Rutherfordton. An interesting aspect to this particular $2.50 variety is the use of an inverted V for A in the legend. Bechtlers gold coinage circulated widely in the South for decades. As a consequence, most specimens seen are worn to one degree or another, making this example especially desirable. An excellent opportunity to add one of the finest known for the type to an advanced Territorial gold collection.
