1894 HK-245a, T-2 California Midwinter Expo Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$805 MS63 02-03-2009 Goldberg Auctioneers

Description

The 1894 T-2 California Midwinter Expo so-called dollar (HK-245a) is a commemorative piece from the Revolutionary War Commemoratives series. The centennial movement of the 1870s-1890s produced medals for the 100th anniversaries of Revolutionary War battles from Lexington and Concord (1875) through Yorktown (1881) and the Constitution's ratification (1887-1890). 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. Revolutionary War centennial medals were produced both by the U.S. Mint (official congressional issues) and private die sinkers. Many were distributed at ceremony sites to attendees and dignitaries. 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. This piece is a variant of HK-245, 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-245a 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-245a; PCGS #642600; NGC #852215