1904 HK-306, Louisiana Purchase Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$360 MS65DMPL 04-12-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This commemorative so-called dollar (HK-306) from 1904 celebrates Louisiana Purchase. The Palace of Electricity at the St. Louis fair demonstrated wireless telegraphy, X-ray technology, and a working telephone exchange, while the fair's food concessions introduced Americans to the ice cream cone and cotton candy. Bronze examples of so-called dollars offer collectors an excellent balance of affordability, condition, and aesthetic appeal. The alloy's hardness produces sharp strikes with fine detail that survives handling better than softer metals. 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. Harold Hibler and Charles Kappen spent decades cataloging American dollar-sized medals, creating a reference work that transformed a scattered collecting field into an organized numismatic specialty.

Rarity Notes

HK-306 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-306; PCGS #642707