(1842-50) G$1 A. Bechtler 27 Grains, 21 Carat PE MS(PCGS#10040)

February 2026 Showcase Auction - The James A. Stack, Sr. Collection Part II

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

23043

Grade

AU55+

Price

13,200

Lot Description

Deep violet, navy blue, and rose tones cover both sides, with rich golden tones illuminated within the lustrous protected areas around the legends. One of the most choice examples we've ever encountered, at this grade or any other, with no significant marks or flaws on either side. The die state is quite late, with significant die rust seen above HT of BECHTLER, around ARO of CAROLINA, and elsewhere. The aesthetic appeal is positively superb. <p><p>One of the most common of all territorial gold issues, the gold dollars of August Bechtler saw wide circulation throughout the South. They also saw widespread damage, both from jewelry use and from polishing in non-numismatic hands. Those with this kind of sharpness and originality bring a strong premium in the marketplace today. In the last century, this piece has been in exactly two collections, namely those of Hillyer Ryder and James A. Stack, Sr. This coin was newer when Hillyer Ryder acquired it than Ryder's envelope is today.