1876 HK-52, Centennial Exposition Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$6,600 MS64 11-21-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1876 so-called dollar (HK-52) commemorates Centennial Exposition. The Women's Pavilion was the first building at any international exposition funded, designed, managed, and filled entirely by women, showcasing female inventors, artists, and entrepreneurs from across the nation. 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. William Barber designed the official U.S. Mint medals for the 1876 Centennial Exposition, establishing the standard for American exposition medal artistry. The Hibler-Kappen catalog has been updated and expanded since its 1963 first edition, with later researchers adding newly discovered varieties and extending coverage into the modern era.

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-52 are scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-52; PCGS #642130; NGC #850112