1837 C. Bechtler Two and a Half Dollar Gold Piece - 70 Grains, 20 Carats

Coin Details

Auction Record

$60,000 MS62 01-16-2022 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1837 Christopher Bechtler Two and a Half Dollar Gold Piece with 70 grains at 20 carats is among the heavier quarter eagle varieties in the later Bechtler series. At 70 grains of 20-carat gold (approximately .833 fine), this issue bridges the gap between the original 75-grain standard and the lighter 64-grain varieties, providing a substantial gold piece that circulated effectively alongside both Bechtler and federal coinage. The 20-carat fineness indicates gold of approximately 83.3% purity, a standard that Christopher Bechtler used consistently for his lower-fineness issues. At this purity level, the gold contains a proportionally higher amount of copper and other base metals in the alloy, which gives the coin a slightly warmer color and increased hardness compared to higher-fineness varieties. The additional weight of 70 grains compensates for the lower purity, maintaining the proper intrinsic gold value. This variety demonstrates the range of specifications Christopher Bechtler employed across his quarter eagle production: from 64 grains at 22 carats to 75 grains at 20 carats, with this 70-grain issue occupying an intermediate position. Each specification represents a unique die pairing that Bechtler created as he processed gold of different purities from the mines of the Carolina Piedmont, making the variety set a fascinating study in early American private minting practices.

Rarity Notes

Scarce. Estimated 25-35 surviving examples. The 70-grain, 20-carat combination is one of the less common quarter eagle specifications.

Cross References

PCGS #10070; NGC #31025