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

Coin Details

Auction Record

Description

HK-137 is the bronze striking of the Valley Forge Centennial medal, 41 mm, catalogued by Julian as CM-48 and by Baker as 449A. Designed and engraved by William Barber under an act of the 45th Congress, it was first struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 1880 and placed in the Mint's own medal series. Washington appears in profile to the right as "Commander in Chief," and the reverse records in an open wreath the army's departure from Valley Forge on June 19, 1778, with the dates 1778--1878. Hibler and Kappen warn that restrikes were made in the twentieth century in yellow bronze with matte surfaces. The encampment of 1777-1778, about 22 miles northwest of Philadelphia, is now a 3,500-acre national historical park. The proof silver striking is HK-136.

Cross References

HK-137; PCGS #642369; NGC #850252