1834 (1834-1837) Christopher Bechtler $5. K-17. Rarity-5. RUTHERFORD, 140.G., 20 CARATS. Plain Edge.

1834 (1834-1837) Christopher Bechtler $5. K-17. Rarity-5. RUTHERFORD, 140.G., 20 CARATS. Plain Edge. MS-62 (PCGS). CAC. Gold Shield Holder.，Enchanting semi-prooflike surfaces also exhibit vivid color in bright golden yellow. All design elements are boldly rendered, the surfaces uncommonly well preserved for both the type and the assigned grade. Premium Mint State quality that is worthy of the strongest bids.<p>The first gold rush in North America happened in the mountains of the Carolinas and Georgia in the early 19th century. With transportation to the mint at Philadelphia perilous at best, an enterprising family of gunsmiths and goldsmiths from Baden took up the challenge and established a private mint in Rutherfordton, North Carolina in 1831. The most successful of the Southern private assayers, the Bechtlers earned a reputation for honesty in their gold coinage and their issues circulated widely even beyond the gold regions of the South. There are even apocryphal claims of Bechtler coins being seen in circulation well after the Civil War. Most of the coins from the Bechtlers mint are found worn, unevenly struck, and quite frequently damaged. The Kagin-17 variety of the $5 denomination is one of the more available in this series, although survivors are scarce in an absolute sense. Mint State Bechtler $5 gold coins of any variety are rare and always command the attention of dedicated Territorial gold enthusiasts.，，