1905 Lewis & Clark Exposition Gold Half Dollar Token - X-Tn2

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,440 MS63DMPL 01-17-2022 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1905 Lewis & Clark Exposition gold half dollar, cataloged as X-Tn2, is the larger denomination gold souvenir piece from Portland's Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition. The half-dollar denomination provided a mid-range gold token option between the smaller quarter and any dollar-denomination pieces, offering fairgoers a more substantial gold keepsake at a moderate price premium. Portland's Lewis and Clark Exposition was a significant event in Pacific Northwest history, transforming a portion of northwest Portland into a fairground showcasing the region's agricultural products, timber resources, manufacturing capabilities, and cultural achievements. The exposition grounds, centered on Guild's Lake, featured elaborate buildings in a classical exposition style and attracted exhibitors from throughout the Pacific Rim, reflecting Portland's aspirations as a major Pacific trade center. The gold half dollar token from the Lewis and Clark Exposition carries particular interest for territorial and Oregon numismatists due to its connection to the state's unique position in American gold coinage history. Oregon's 1849 private gold coins are among the most celebrated territorial issues, and the 1905 exposition gold tokens represent a later chapter in the same regional numismatic tradition. The half-dollar denomination saw meaningful production but is scarcer than the quarter in surviving numbers, reflecting lower original mintage due to the higher gold cost per piece.

Rarity Notes

Scarce to rare. The half-dollar denomination is less common than the quarter token. Approximately 30-50 examples survive. NGC-certified examples are known, indicating the piece meets grading service standards for attribution.

Cross References

PCGS #532418; HK X-Tn2 (Lewis & Clark Exposition Token)