1776 So-Called Dollar HK-852, Continental Dollar Silver - Restrike of 1876 Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

The original Continental dollar dies were engraved in 1776 by Elisha Gallaudet of New York, and some originals bear "E.G. FECIT," his signature meaning that he made it. Its designs follow the fractional Continental Currency notes of February 17, 1776, which tradition credits to Benjamin Franklin: a sundial under the sun with "Fugio" and "Mind Your Business" on one face, and a chain of thirteen linked rings, each naming a state, on the other. Franklin's motto reworked an older English saying along the lines of "Be About Your Business." This silver piece, HK-852, is Professor Dickeson's copy made for the 1876 centennial, still dated 1776 and 38 mm across, with no S on the reverse. Gold (HK-852b, slightly larger at 40.5 to 41 mm and 56.8 grams) and several base metals were also struck from the copy dies.

Cross References

HK-852; PCGS #643590