1901 So-Called Dollar HK-645, Detroit Bi-Centennial

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as HK-645, this 1901 so-called dollar commemorates Detroit Bi-Centennial in Michigan. The centennial movement in America gained momentum after the 1876 national Centennial in Philadelphia, inspiring communities large and small to mark their own 100th anniversaries with locally produced commemorative medals and tokens. 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. As a major American badge and medal manufacturer, Whitehead-Hoag combined industrial-scale production with competent artistic design, making commemorative pieces accessible to a broad range of organizations and events. 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. Local commemorative medals from 1900-1930 reflect the Progressive Era's civic enthusiasm and the influence of the great exposition movement on community celebrations across the country.

Rarity Notes

HK-645 is scarce among so-called dollar collectors. Local commemorative medals from the Progressive Era were typically produced in limited quantities for distribution at the celebration event.

Cross References

HK-645; PCGS #643150