(1842-50) $5 A. Bechtler, 134 Grains, 21 Carats MS(PCGS#10046)

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

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

23044

Grade

AU58+

Price

60,000

Lot Description

Flashy and reflective luster emerges from protected areas, while greenish-gold yields to copper toning and splashes of orange and violet elsewhere. Positively choice for the grade, with only trivial hairlines and insignificant marks scattered around the surfaces. A streak of deep violet toning descends through LI of CAROLINA. A few little hairlines are seen above and below ERFOR at the base of the reverse, but other marks are significant enough to mention. The eye appeal is outstanding, and this piece clearly saw very little actual circulation.<p><p>Thomas Elder graded this coin Uncirculated in 1921, describing it as "very rare." While this variety is only considered very scarce today, it is unquestionably extremely rare with this kind of visual appeal or in this state of preservation. Indeed, this is the single finest example ever certified by PCGS of the 21 CARATS variety. While father Christopher Bechtler struck several major varieties of $5 coins, son August struck just three in his own name. These are easily distinguishable based upon the stated fineness: 20 carats (Kagin-29), 21 carats (Kagin-27), and 22 carats (Kagin-28). This is the most frequently encountered of the three, and yet is the only one that PCGS has never certified in Mint State. The quality and provenance of this piece make it an extremely important coin for Bechtler specialists.