(1904) So-Called Dollar HK-317, Palace of Liberal Arts

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as HK-317, this 1904 so-called dollar honors Palace of Liberal Arts. 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. 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. 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 has been updated and expanded since its 1963 first edition, with later researchers adding newly discovered varieties and extending coverage into the modern era.

Rarity Notes

Examples of HK-317 are scarce among so-called dollar collectors. Early 20th century commemorative medals survive in varying numbers depending on original mintage and subsequent preservation.

Cross References

HK-317; PCGS #642721; NGC #850546