"1883" Hawaiian Fantasy Strike - Eighth Dollar, Platinum (c.1900)

Coin Details

Description

This platinum hub impression of the Hawaiian 1/8 Dollar (hapawalu) denomination is among the most exotic pieces in all of Hawaiian numismatics. Struck in platinum from the hub for the unissued hapawalu denomination, this piece combines the rarity of the hapawalu design with the precious metal content of platinum, creating a uniquely valuable numismatic artifact. The use of platinum for a hub impression is extremely unusual in 19th-century numismatics. Platinum was not commonly used for coinage or medallic purposes in the United States during this period, making a platinum Hawaiian hub impression a remarkable anomaly. The piece was produced around 1900 as a special collector item, commissioned by a wealthy numismatist or produced as a demonstration piece. The hapawalu denomination, never officially produced for circulation, exists primarily in the form of hub impressions and fantasy strikes. This platinum example represents the most precious metal version of the unissued denomination, combining the historical interest of an unrealized coinage design with the extreme rarity of a platinum numismatic piece from this era.

Rarity Notes

Extremely rare. Unique or one of only 2-3 examples known in platinum. Among the most valuable Hawaiian numismatic pieces. PCGS #510972.

Cross References

PCGS #510972; Medcalf-Russell