1854 HK-8, Crystal Palace Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$576 MS63 12-07-2019 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1854 Crystal Palace so-called dollar (HK-8) is a commemorative piece from the Early Commemoratives series. The antebellum period produced some of the earliest American so-called dollars, struck by private die sinkers and the U.S. Mint to mark canal openings, railroad inaugurations, and civic milestones. Bronze examples of so-called dollars offer collectors an excellent balance of affordability, condition, and aesthetic appeal. The alloy's hardness produces sharp strikes with fine detail that survives handling better than softer metals. Early commemorative medals were produced in small quantities by private die sinkers, with white metal and copper being the most common compositions. Distribution was typically limited to event participants and subscribers. The HK numbering system established by Hibler and Kappen in 1963 brought order to hundreds of previously uncataloged American commemorative medals, many of which had been ignored by mainstream numismatic references.

Rarity Notes

So-called dollars from the post-Civil War era were produced in limited quantities for distribution at events or through numismatic channels. Examples of HK-8 are scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-8; PCGS #642013; NGC #850013