1915 Bronze So-Called Dollar HK-421, Panama Pacific Expo

Coin Details

Auction Record

$432 MS63 03-31-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

HK-421 is a 1915 so-called dollar commemorating Panama Pacific Expo. The 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco celebrated the completion of the Panama Canal and demonstrated the city's remarkable recovery from the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire. 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. 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. 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

Bronze strikings of HK-421 are common to moderately scarce. Early 20th century medals were often distributed at events, with many entering circulation as pocket pieces rather than being preserved as collectibles.

Cross References

HK-421; PCGS #643924; NGC #850701