1884-1885 So-Called Dollar HK-143, 5 La Mardi Gras Dollar

Coin Details

Description

Designated HK-143 in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1884 piece commemorates 5 La Mardi Gras. Regional commemoratives from this era reflect the Gilded Age's enthusiasm for civic identity, with communities large and small commissioning medals to assert their place in the American narrative. The bronze composition of this piece reflects the medallic tradition dating to classical antiquity. Bronze so-called dollars typically survive in better condition than white metal examples due to the alloy's greater hardness and durability. State and regional medals were typically commissioned by local committees and struck by private manufacturers. Silver and white metal compositions predominate. 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

Examples of HK-143 are scarce among so-called dollar collectors. Gilded Age commemorative medals survive in varying numbers depending on original mintage and subsequent preservation.

Cross References

HK-143; PCGS #642387; NGC #850259