1893 HK-213a, World's Columbian Expo Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$240 MS64BN 12-21-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

This commemorative so-called dollar (HK-213a) from 1893 celebrates 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. This bronze so-called dollar represents the standard commemorative medal composition of its era. Bronze pieces were often the primary production run, with silver reserved for presentation copies and white metal for budget editions. 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). Collectors of so-called dollars pursue pieces by exposition, metal type, engraver, geographic region, or historical theme, with complete sets of certain exposition groups being particularly prized accomplishments. This piece is a variant of HK-213, distinguished by differences in composition, die state, or striking characteristics that merit a separate catalog entry in the Hibler-Kappen reference.

Rarity Notes

Strikings of HK-213a 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-213a; PCGS #642522; NGC #850360