1881 HK-125, Battle of Groton Heights Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$499 PR65DCAM 06-29-2012 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1881 so-called dollar (HK-125) commemorates Battle of Groton Heights. Many Revolutionary War centennial medals were struck by the U.S. Mint as official congressional issues, giving them a gravitas that distinguished them from purely commercial commemorative pieces. Bronze examples of so-called dollars offer collectors an excellent balance of affordability, condition, and aesthetic appeal. The alloy's hardness produces sharp strikes with fine detail that survives handling better than softer metals. 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, first published in 1963 by Harold E. Hibler and Charles V. Kappen, systematically organized American so-called dollars for the first time, assigning HK numbers that remain the standard reference today.

Rarity Notes

So-called dollars from the Gilded Age were produced in limited quantities for distribution at events or through numismatic channels. Examples of HK-125 are scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-125; PCGS #642323; NGC #850224