1893 So-Called Dollar HK-766, Carter H. Harrison Statue

Coin Details

Auction Record

$106 MS63 11-02-2016 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1893 local commemorative so-called dollar (HK-766) honors Carter H. Harrison Statue in Illinois. The tradition of honoring individuals with commemorative medals extends from formal congressional gold medals to locally produced pieces celebrating community leaders, educators, and benefactors. Struck in bronze, this piece showcases the detailed die work typical of American commemorative medals. Bronze's natural patina gives aged examples an appealing warm-brown surface that collectors prize. As a major American badge and medal manufacturer, Whitehead-Hoag combined industrial-scale production with competent artistic design, making commemorative pieces accessible to a broad range of organizations and events. The Prairie State's commemorative medal tradition reflects both the dramatic growth of Chicago and the agricultural heritage of downstate communities that fed the nation during its westward expansion. 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. Pre-1900 local commemorative medals are among the most historically significant in the so-called dollar series, documenting the celebrations of communities still within living memory of their founding or early settlement periods.

Rarity Notes

Examples of HK-766 are scarce. Distribution was usually limited to event attendees and local residents, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-766; PCGS #643464