1909 HK-355, Alaska-Yukon Pac Expo Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$144 MS63BN 04-28-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This commemorative so-called dollar (HK-355) from 1909 celebrates Alaska-Yukon Pac Expo. The Washington Monument's construction spanned 36 years (1848-1884), with the visible color change one-third up the obelisk marking where construction resumed after the Civil War with marble from a different quarry. 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. Miscellaneous national commemorative medals were produced by a wide range of manufacturers, from the U.S. Mint to local die-sinkers, covering subjects from presidential inaugurations to infrastructure milestones. 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

HK-355 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-355; PCGS #642797; NGC #850607