Lot 4882
Christopher Bechtler, 5 DOLLARS CAROLINA, 134 gr. 21 carats, with star. . Kagin-20, Breen-7754. NGC graded AU-55. Lovely dark orange and gold toning. A well struck, carefully preserved coin from this important private minter.
This being one of the "Carolina Gold" issues, it is believed, according to the Kagin reference and earlier archival testimony, that the location inscriptions actually designated three different degrees of fineness, regardless of where the stamped gold was mined.
Kagin states that: A statement by the Acting Director of the Mint supports this theory: "Bechtler location stamps are only to assist in indicating the different qualities, as they are generally understood in that region, Georgia gold being usually the best and North Carolina the poorest." The stamped location on the coins generally corresponded with the three degrees of fine gold content and was at least equal to and usually exceeded the new United States standard (129 grains of .900 fine gold for $5). Confirmation on this point might be found in the Bechtler advertisement, wherein he offered to make special coins from "Georgia and South Carolina gold." An interesting era in American history! Pop 7; 26 finer; 11 in 58; 5 in 60; 10 in 61. (PCGS # 10097) .
Estimated Value $11,000 - 12,000.
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