A Bechtler G$1 27 Grains 21 Carat Bechtler (N. Carolina/Georgia) PCGS AU55+ James A Stack Sr. Collection (CAC)

Struck during the height of America’s early gold-rush era, this Bechtler G$1 “27 Grains, 21 Carat” issue is a landmark piece of Southern private gold, produced by Augustus Bechtler in North Carolina/Georgia. Listed as Kagin 24, it represents the practical, commerce-driven coinage that helped bring consistent gold value to a rapidly expanding regional economy, making it an essential type for collectors of U.S. pioneer and territorial-era gold. Certified PCGS AU55+ and approved by CAC, this example comes from the esteemed James A. Stack Sr. Collection, adding notable provenance and collector confidence. With a population of just 1 at this grade and only 99 certified higher, it offers a compelling balance of rarity, historical importance, and eye appeal in an always-in-demand Bechtler denomination. The design is famously straightforward and efficient, composed solely of letters and numerals, yet it is exactly this utilitarian elegance that defines Bechtler gold. The dies for this variety were used over an extended period; while the type is encountered more often than some Bechtler issues, Mint State pieces are notably rare, and many survivors have been cleaned or stripped of original surfaces. Collectors especially prize coins that retain natural color and character. This coin presents predominantly warm golden-bronze and amber tones, with lighter honey-gold highlights across the devices and fields. Subtle secondary hues of soft violet, rose, and pale steel-blue appear in scattered areas, with deeper bronze-brown shading concentrated near portions of the rims and around some lettering, underscoring the kind of original-looking patina that seasoned specialists seek. Key highlights Issuer and type: Augustus Bechtler, Kagin 24 private gold $1 Weight and purity: 27 Grains, 21 Carat (87.5% gold) Grade: PCGS AU55+ with CAC approval Provenance: James A. Stack Sr. Collection Rarity at grade: Population 1; 99 higher Cert #: 52659024 A high-quality, CAC-endorsed Bechtler dollar with notable provenance, strong collector appeal, and the historical gravitas of America’s earliest gold coinage tradition.