1904 Brass So-Called Dollar HK-736, U.S. Express Co., 50th Anniversary

Coin Details

Auction Record

$92 MS63 02-03-2009 Goldberg Auctioneers

Description

The 1904 U.S. Express Co so-called dollar (HK-736) is a local commemorative piece. Commemorative medals honoring individuals have been part of American medallic tradition since the nation's founding, with subjects ranging from presidents and military heroes to local civic leaders and cultural figures. 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. Over its century-long history, the Medallic Art Company produced America's most prestigious awards including the Pulitzer Prize, Peabody Award, Newbery and Caldecott Medals, and presidential inaugural medals for eleven presidents. The HK numbering system established by Hibler and Kappen in 1963 brought order to hundreds of previously uncataloged American commemorative medals, many of which had been ignored by mainstream numismatic references. The early 20th century saw a flourishing of local commemorative medal production, as improved manufacturing techniques and growing civic consciousness combined to make medal issuance accessible to communities of all sizes.

Rarity Notes

Examples of HK-736 are common to moderately scarce. Distribution was usually limited to event attendees and local residents, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-736; PCGS #643385