1904 HK-302, Louisiana Purchase Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$456 MS66PL 04-01-2019 Kagin's

Description

Designated HK-302 in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1904 piece commemorates Louisiana Purchase. The St. Louis fair commemorated the 100th anniversary of the 1803 Louisiana Purchase, in which President Jefferson acquired 828,000 square miles of territory from Napoleon's France for approximately $15 million. This bronze so-called dollar represents the standard commemorative medal composition of its era. Bronze pieces were often the primary production run, with silver reserved for presentation copies and white metal for budget editions. Official exposition medals were struck alongside the landmark Jefferson and McKinley gold dollars. Private manufacturers produced additional commemorative pieces sold to the 19.7 million fairgoers. Morgan's artistic legacy extends beyond coinage to include numerous commemorative medals that showcase his distinctive portrait and eagle designs. Collectors of so-called dollars pursue pieces by exposition, metal type, engraver, geographic region, or historical theme, with complete sets of certain exposition groups being particularly prized accomplishments.

Rarity Notes

HK-302 is scarce in the numismatic market. Production quantities for early 20th century commemorative medals were typically modest, and survival rates vary significantly based on the original distribution method and the material's durability.

Cross References

HK-302; PCGS #642699; NGC #850523