1876 Silver So-Called Dollar GW-902, HK-115a, U.S. Centennial Exposition

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,920 MS64 11-18-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1876 so-called dollar (HK-115a) commemorates U.S. Centennial Exposition. 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. As a silver so-called dollar, this piece occupies the top tier of its series in terms of both metallic value and collector desirability. Silver strikings generally survive in lower numbers due to their limited original production. 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. This piece is a variant of HK-115, distinguished by differences in composition, die state, or striking characteristics that merit a separate catalog entry in the Hibler-Kappen reference.

Rarity Notes

HK-115a is scarce to rare in the numismatic market. Production quantities for post-Civil War era commemorative medals were typically modest, and survival rates vary significantly based on the original distribution method and the material's durability.

Cross References

HK-115a; PCGS #642291; NGC #850207