1894 HK-249, Aluminum, Electric Tower CA Midwinter Expo Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$228 MS64 08-22-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This commemorative so-called dollar (HK-249) from 1894 celebrates Electric Tower CA Midwinter Expo. 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). 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. 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. 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.

Rarity Notes

Examples of HK-249 are moderately scarce among so-called dollar collectors. Gilded Age commemorative medals survive in varying numbers depending on original mintage and subsequent preservation.

Cross References

HK-249; PCGS #642604; NGC #850454