| Description |
U.S. Mint Assay Report on Bechtler Gold Coins Unique 1837 Handwritten DocumentFeb. 8, 1837. Original handwritten document, [39 by 25 cm], on plain paper ruled in red. Arranged in tabular format, with columns for denomination, number of pieces used, alleged weight of the pieces, the actual average weight of the pieces examined, the alleged fineness in carats, the alleged fineness in milli�mes or thousandths, the actual fineness in milli�mes, the alleged value of each piece, and their average actual value. Notes are made as to the number of parcels in which the assays were conducted. The extremes of values of the different finenesses are given. It is noted that "The foregoing is extracted from records in the Assayer's office. All the pieces purported to have been struck since August 1834; and it is proper to add, they had not, generally, the appearance of having been much in circulation, if at all." The results of the assay of these pieces clearly indicate that the Bechtler gold coins were not of full value, with the average value of the $5 pieces being between $4.81 and $4.906, the average value of the $2.50 pieces being between $2.40 and $2.468, and the average value of the $1 pieces being $0.975. Information is provided for coins indicated as being 20, 21, and 22 carats fine. Repaired many years ago where the document had separated at various folds. Perfectly legible; slightly toned at some of the old repairs. Very good. A most remarkable document, quite important for what it reports about the Bechtler pieces. Estimate $5,000. Ex: Eric P. Newman Numismatic Education Society.
Heritage Auctions 11/2018 (Newman XI), lot15402 (realized $2640).
Heritage link: http://www.ha.com/c/item.zx?saleNo=1283&lotIdNo=11017 |
