1892-1893 So-Called Dollar HK-218, Ritchie, Us Commissioner

Coin Details

Description

HK-218 is a 1892 so-called dollar commemorating Ritchie Us Commissioner. The Columbian Exposition introduced Americans to alternating current electricity (demonstrated by Westinghouse and Tesla), the zipper, Cracker Jack, Juicy Fruit gum, and Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. 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. 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). 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.

Rarity Notes

Strikings of HK-218 are 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-218; PCGS #642529; NGC #850369