1878 HK-137, GW-959 Bronze Valley Forge Centennial Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,320 MS64+ 11-18-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

Designated HK-137 in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1878 piece commemorates Valley Forge Centennial. The centennial commemoratives reflected a post-Civil War national reunification impulse, using shared Revolutionary War heritage to build patriotic unity across a country still healing from sectional conflict. 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 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

HK-137 is common to moderately scarce 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-137; PCGS #642369; NGC #850252