1883 HK-135, GW-998 White Metal Washington's Headquarters Dollar

Coin Details

Description

HK-135 is a 1883 so-called dollar commemorating Washington's Headquarters. 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. Cast or struck in white metal, this piece exhibits the silvery-white appearance characteristic of tin-based alloys. The softness of white metal makes high-grade examples surprisingly scarce despite generous original mintages. 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. Collectors of so-called dollars pursue pieces by exposition, metal type, engraver, geographic region, or historical theme, with complete sets of certain exposition groups being particularly prized accomplishments.

Rarity Notes

White Metal strikings of HK-135 are moderately scarce. Gilded Age medals were often distributed at events, with many entering circulation as pocket pieces rather than being preserved as collectibles.

Cross References

HK-135; PCGS #642365; NGC #850250