1900 Lesher Dollar - HK-789, A.B. Bumstead Type 2

Coin Details

Description

The 1900 Lesher Dollar HK-789, designated the A.B. Bumstead Type 2, is the more commonly encountered of the two Bumstead reverse varieties. This type shares the same Herman Otto mining scene obverse with "A.B. BUMSTEAD" stamped on, but uses the "Second Reverse" die that differs from the Type 1 (HK-788) in two diagnostic ways: the Colorado State Seal appears without scrolls at the sides, and there is no line above "Colo." These subtle reverse die differences provide clear attribution points for collectors. With approximately 500 pieces struck, the Bumstead Type 2 represents the largest single production run of the 1900 Lesher Dollar series. The higher mintage reflects the success of the Bumstead distribution model — Victor's residents readily accepted the octagonal silver pieces in commerce, circulating them alongside federal coinage in Victor, Cripple Creek, and surrounding communities of the Cripple Creek mining district. The Bumstead partnership demonstrated the viability of Lesher's Referendum concept and encouraged him to expand the program in 1901 with multiple merchant participants across Colorado. Each Type 2 piece contains one troy ounce of .950 fine silver and bears an individually hand-punched serial number. The Type 2's relatively higher survival rate makes it among the most accessible Lesher Dollar varieties for collectors, though even the most common types command significant premiums due to the series' overall rarity and historical importance.

Rarity Notes

R-4 to R-5. Approximately 500 struck — the most common 1900 Lesher Dollar variety. Distinguished from Type 1 by the Second Reverse without scrolls and no line above "Colo."

Cross References

HK-789; Zerbe-3 (Z-3); PCGS #19002