Undated (1837-1842) Christopher Bechtler $5. K-20. Rarity-4. 134.G., 21 CARATS, With Star. AU-58 (NGC).A handsome piece with subtle pale rose highlights to otherwise dominant olive-khaki patina. All design elements are boldly rendered, the surfaces with a satiny, somewhat granular texture that retains appreciable remnants of the original finish. Scattered handling marks are consistent with the type, a tiny edge nick just past 9 oclock on the reverse noted for accuracy. That side of the coin is also rotated nearly 90 degrees counterclockwise from normal coin alignment. Although the designs of these Bechtler coins were simple, they stated the necessary information -- this is CAROLINA GOLD, 21 CARATS and 134 GRAINS in weight for the obverse, while the reverse states the maker C. BECHTLER at RUTHERF(ord) and the denomination 5 DOLLARS. Examples of this type circulated widely and were known to be as stated for their purity and weight. A few years after they were struck, the federal government finally stepped in and opened branch mints in the Lower Appalachian region. By 1838, the Charlotte and Dahlonega mints were in production. These historic Bechtler gold coins are highly collectible and usually found in reasonably high numismatic grades. This example is particularly appealing for its technical quality and eye appeal.
