1883 So-Called Dollar HK-135b, Headquarters at Newburgh

Coin Details

Description

Designated HK-135b in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1883 piece commemorates Headquarters at Newburgh. The centennial movement of the 1870s-1890s produced medals for the 100th anniversaries of Revolutionary War battles from Lexington and Concord (1875) through Yorktown (1881) and the Constitution's ratification (1887-1890). 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. Harold Hibler and Charles Kappen spent decades cataloging American dollar-sized medals, creating a reference work that transformed a scattered collecting field into an organized numismatic specialty. This piece is a variant of HK-135, distinguished by differences in composition, die state, or striking characteristics that merit a separate catalog entry in the Hibler-Kappen reference.

Rarity Notes

HK-135b is scarce in the numismatic market. Production quantities for Gilded Age commemorative medals were typically modest, and survival rates vary significantly based on the original distribution method and the material's durability.

Cross References

HK-135b; PCGS #642367; NGC #852196