1892-93 Aluminum So-Called Dollar HK-192, World's Columbian Expo

Coin Details

Auction Record

$597 MS64 12-17-2022 eBay

Description

Designated HK-192 in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1892 piece commemorates World's Columbian Expo. The Columbian Exposition produced the second-largest group of so-called dollars in the HK catalog after the 1876 Centennial, including pieces struck by the U.S. Mint and dozens of private exhibitors and concessionaires. Aluminum so-called dollars, while lighter than their traditional-metal counterparts, maintain sharp design detail due to the metal's excellent die-filling properties under pressure. 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). Barber's clean, classical engraving style defined the look of official American exposition medals for over three decades of world's fairs. The Hibler-Kappen catalog has been updated and expanded since its 1963 first edition, with later researchers adding newly discovered varieties and extending coverage into the modern era.

Rarity Notes

So-called dollars from the Gilded Age were produced in limited quantities for distribution at events or through numismatic channels. Aluminum examples of HK-192 are moderately scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-192; PCGS #642479; NGC #850331