1892-1893 So-Called Dollar HK-181b, 93) Il Hort.Bld/Forestry & Trans ScDollar

Coin Details

Description

HK-181b is a 1892 so-called dollar commemorating 93) Il Hort.Bld/Forestry & Trans ScDollar. The exposition's Court of Honor, with its Grand Basin reflecting pool surrounded by Burnham's neoclassical buildings painted white, inspired the City Beautiful movement that transformed American urban planning. 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. Both the U.S. Mint and numerous private firms struck Columbian medals. Charles Barber designed official mint issues. The exposition also generated the first U.S. commemorative coins (Columbian half dollar). 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. This piece is a variant of HK-181, distinguished by differences in composition, die state, or striking characteristics that merit a separate catalog entry in the Hibler-Kappen reference.

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-181b are scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-181b; PCGS #642461; NGC #852432