1894 So-Called Dollar HK-264, Lauer'S Mechanics Bld

Coin Details

Auction Record

$204 MS64 07-29-2020 Heritage Auctions

Description

This 1894 so-called dollar (HK-264) commemorates Lauer'S Mechanics Bld. Communities along the eastern seaboard competed to honor their Revolutionary War heritage, with towns like Bennington, Saratoga, Brandywine, and Valley Forge striking commemorative medals for centennial ceremonies. Struck in bronze, this piece combines durability with an attractive warm tone that deepens with age into a rich chocolate-brown patina. Bronze was the preferred composition for many commemorative medals due to its excellent detail retention. 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, first published in 1963 by Harold E. Hibler and Charles V. Kappen, systematically organized American so-called dollars for the first time, assigning HK numbers that remain the standard reference today.

Rarity Notes

Strikings of HK-264 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-264; PCGS #642619; NGC #850472