An improvement in the method for the production of a highly aromatic pitch-like coal by-product by dissolving comminuted coal or similar solid carbon-containing raw materials with aromatic solvents at elevated temperature is disclosed wherein the solid materials are dissolved at atmospheric pressure in aromatic compound mixtures of coal origin with an average boiling point above 350.degree. C. and recycling of the condensable fractions of the reaction gas. If the occasion arises, further aromatic solvents may be added to the suspension.