PCGS AU58 K-1 C. BECHTLER GOLD DOLLAR

K-1, R-4. 30 G with a Reeded Edge

This is a numismaitcally significant variety as it represents the very first gold dollar made in the US, nearly two decades prior to the introduction of this denomination by the Philadelphia mint (and it three branches) in 1849. This design was made from 1831 through 1834 when it was superseded by the K-2 and K-3 28 grain issues made from 1834 through 1837.

Today, the K-1 gold dollar is recognized as a scarce issue in the higher range of AU grades, and a very scarce issue in the lower MS grades.

Crudely made on a slightly buckled planchet, this coin has the appearance of a full Uncirculated but it has been somewhat harshly net-graded by PCGS due to some light hairlines as well as some light streaks in the planchet that can be seen on the reverse when the coin is tilted towards a light source. Quickly identifiable by the presence of a small wispy planchet crack from the rim through the first A in CAROLINA terminating at the top of the O in ONE.

Since 2018, there have been just two APRs for a PCGS AU58 K-1 C. Bechtler dollar. Heritage 11/2024 brought $9,900, and was not nice, while the same firm sold the same coin for $11,400 in their 5/2024 auction. There are three very strong APRs for nice NGC/CAC examples in AU58, including $22,800 for the vividly toned Heritage 11/2023: 3266.

NOTE: I have not sent this coin to CAC.

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