1897 HK-277, Type-II Brass Fitzsimmons Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$173 Details 02-03-2009 Goldberg Auctioneers

Description

This 1897 so-called dollar (HK-277) commemorates Type-II Fitzsimmons. The centennial commemoratives reflected a post-Civil War national reunification impulse, using shared Revolutionary War heritage to build patriotic unity across a country still healing from sectional conflict. The brass composition gives this piece a warm golden tone that distinguishes it from bronze and copper versions. Brass commemorative medals were produced in moderate quantities and tend to survive in better condition than white metal issues. 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.

Rarity Notes

So-called dollars from the Gilded Age were produced in limited quantities for distribution at events or through numismatic channels. Brass examples of HK-277 are common to moderately scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-277; PCGS #642640; NGC #850486