1878 HK-120, Bronze, Wyoming Battle Centennial Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,140 MS65BN 03-02-2020 Kagin's

Description

HK-120 is a 1878 so-called dollar commemorating Wyoming Battle Centennial. George Washington's legacy generated numerous centennial medals, including pieces for the 1889 centennial of his presidential inauguration in New York and the 1899 centennial of his death at Mount Vernon. 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. Revolutionary War centennial medals were produced both by the U.S. Mint (official congressional issues) and private die sinkers. Many were distributed at ceremony sites to attendees and dignitaries. 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

Examples of HK-120 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-120; PCGS #642305; NGC #850214