1915-1916 So-Called Dollar HK-429, Pan-Cal Expo, Silvered

Coin Details

Description

HK-429 is a 1915 so-called dollar commemorating Pan-Cal Expo. The Tower of Jewels, the exposition's centerpiece at 435 feet tall, was covered with over 100,000 cut glass 'Novagems' that shimmered in the sun and were illuminated by colored searchlights at night. This silvered so-called dollar features a silver coating over a base metal core, giving it the appearance of a solid silver piece at a fraction of the cost. The silvering process could involve electroplating, chemical deposition, or dipping. Official exposition medals were struck by the U.S. Mint, and the landmark Panama-Pacific commemorative coin set (including the famous $50 gold pieces) made this the most numismatically significant American exposition. 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. 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

So-called dollars from the early 20th century were produced in limited quantities for distribution at events or through numismatic channels. Silvered examples of HK-429 are scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-429; PCGS #643936; NGC #850709