1901 Lesher Dollar - HK-794, D.W. Klein

Coin Details

Description

The 1901 Lesher Dollar HK-794, stamped for D.W. Klein & Co. of Pueblo, Colorado, represents the expansion of Lesher's distribution network beyond the immediate Cripple Creek mining district. Klein operated a liquor retail business in Pueblo, approximately 75 miles south of Victor, demonstrating that Lesher's Referendum Dollars were gaining acceptance across a wider geographic area. The imprint reads "D. W. KLEIN & CO. / PUEBLO, COLO." Approximately 100 pieces were stamped for Klein, with an additional hoard of 17 specimens reported by Dr. Philip W. Whiteley — one of the leading researchers of the Lesher Dollar series. Hoards of this size are significant in a series where total production across all types is estimated at only 1,869-3,500 pieces, and they can meaningfully affect the available supply and market dynamics for specific varieties. Klein's involvement as a liquor retailer in Pueblo — a larger city than Victor with a more diverse economy — shows Lesher working to establish his silver currency as a medium of exchange beyond the mining communities where it originated. The range of merchant types in the 1901 series (grocers, jewelers, liquor dealers, clothiers, druggists, and more) across multiple Colorado cities illustrates the ambition of Lesher's vision for private silver currency.

Rarity Notes

R-6. Approximately 100 stamped, plus a hoard of 17 reported by Dr. Whiteley. Uncommon but more available than most merchant types.

Cross References

HK-794; Zerbe-8 (Z-8); PCGS #19009