1834 C. Bechtler Five Dollar Gold Piece - 140 Grains, 20 Carats, Reeded Edge

Coin Details

Auction Record

$8,751 N82 11-02-2014 David Lawrence RC

Description

The 1834 Christopher Bechtler Five Dollar Gold Piece with 140 grains, 20 carats, and reeded edge is a variety from the middle period of the Bechtler mint's operation. The "140.G" weight mark indicates a reduction from the earlier 150-grain standard, while the "20.C" carat designation explicitly states the gold's fineness at approximately .833 pure. The reeded edge distinguishes this from the plain edge varieties of similar specification. The combination of explicit grain weight and carat designation on the same coin provided users with complete information about the gold content — a level of transparency unusual for any mint of this era. At 140 grains of 20-carat gold, this five-dollar piece contains approximately 116.7 grains of pure gold, closely approximating the intrinsic value of five dollars at contemporary gold prices. The obverse features "CAROLINA GOLD" with the weight and carat inscriptions, while the reverse displays the denomination value and "C. BECHTLER" as the issuer. The "C:" abbreviation found on some related varieties indicates Christopher Bechtler specifically, distinguishing his products from those later produced by his nephew August. The reeded edge was produced by passing the struck coin through a reeding device, creating the parallel grooves that served as an anti-counterfeiting measure.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Estimated 30-45 surviving examples. The 140-grain, reeded edge variety is one of the more available Bechtler five-dollar issues.

Cross References

PCGS #10092; NGC #31012