1837 C. Bechtler One Dollar Gold Piece - 28 Grains, N Reversed

Coin Details

Auction Record

$29,900 MS63 08-09-2007 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1837 Christopher Bechtler One Dollar Gold Piece with 28 grains and reversed "N" is one of the most distinctive and popular die varieties in the Bechtler series. Cataloged as Kagin K-4, this variety features a reversed letter "N" in the word "ONE" on the reverse — the denomination side of the coin — where the letter is engraved as a mirror image. This classic blundered-die error went uncorrected through the entire production run of this die pairing, creating a permanent variety that is immediately recognizable to territorial gold specialists. Die letter reversals were not uncommon in privately produced coinage of the early nineteenth century. Unlike the United States Mint, which employed professional die sinkers trained in the specialized art of reverse-image engraving, private minters like Christopher Bechtler relied on their own skills as goldsmiths and metalworkers. The reversed N in ONE demonstrates the challenges of hand-cutting dies in mirror image, particularly for a craftsman whose primary expertise was in jewelry and precious metalwork rather than die sinking. The larger letters used for the denomination were almost certainly engraved by hand directly into the die rather than using letter punches. Despite such minor imperfections, Bechtler's coins were highly regarded for their accurate gold content and consistent weight standards. This variety maintains the stated 28-grain weight and features the standard Bechtler design elements: the reverse reads "CAROLINA GOLD" around the central denomination "ONE" (with the reversed N), while the obverse bears "$1" with "RUTHERF:" and "28:G:" indicating the Rutherfordton mint location and gold weight. The K-4 N Reversed variety is the most plentiful of all C. Bechtler gold dollar varieties and remains a perennial favorite among collectors of territorial gold.

Rarity Notes

The most plentiful of all C. Bechtler gold dollar varieties. PCGS and NGC have collectively graded well over 100 submissions, though resubmissions reduce the unique count. The reversed N die variety is popular with error and variety collectors and commands a modest premium over normal Bechtler gold dollars.

Cross References

Kagin K-4; PCGS #10055; NGC #31015; NGC #31015 (duplicate, deleted)