1876 Bronze So-Called Dollar GW-890, HK-109, Fort Washington

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,140 MS65BN 11-18-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

HK-109 is a 1876 so-called dollar commemorating Fort Washington. The Centennial generated the largest single group of so-called dollars in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, with medals struck by the U.S. Mint, private manufacturers, and foreign exhibitors in dozens of metallic compositions. The bronze composition of this piece reflects the medallic tradition dating to classical antiquity. Bronze so-called dollars typically survive in better condition than white metal examples due to the alloy's greater hardness and durability. The U.S. Mint struck official Centennial medals designed by William Barber, while private firms produced hundreds of additional varieties. The Centennial group is the largest in the HK catalog. Barber's engraving style combined classical European training with American patriotic iconography, producing medals of exceptional technical quality. Collectors of so-called dollars pursue pieces by exposition, metal type, engraver, geographic region, or historical theme, with complete sets of certain exposition groups being particularly prized accomplishments.

Rarity Notes

Examples of HK-109 are common to moderately scarce among so-called dollar collectors. Post-Civil War era commemorative medals survive in varying numbers depending on original mintage and subsequent preservation.

Cross References

HK-109; PCGS #642265; NGC #850201