1904 So-Called Dollar HK-313, Cascade Gardens

Coin Details

Description

This 1904 so-called dollar (HK-313) commemorates Cascade Gardens. The 1905 Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition in Portland, Oregon celebrated the famous 1804-1806 expedition with 400 acres of exhibits along the Willamette River, drawing 1.6 million visitors. 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. Charles Barber's tenure as Chief Engraver coincided with the golden age of American expositions, and he designed official U.S. Mint medals for the Columbian, Louisiana Purchase, and Panama-Pacific fairs. The Hibler-Kappen catalog, first published in 1963 by Harold E. Hibler and Charles V. Kappen, systematically organized American so-called dollars for the first time, assigning HK numbers that remain the standard reference today.

Rarity Notes

So-called dollars from the early 20th century were produced in limited quantities for distribution at events or through numismatic channels. Examples of HK-313 are scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-313; PCGS #642716; NGC #850539