1915 HK-408a, Brz Panama-Pacific Expo Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$58 Details 02-03-2009 Goldberg Auctioneers

Description

The 1915 Brz Panama-Pacific Expo so-called dollar (HK-408a) is a commemorative piece from the Panama-Pacific Exposition series. The Panama-Pacific Exposition generated the famous $50 Panama-Pacific commemorative gold piece — the highest-denomination commemorative coin ever issued by the United States — alongside gold dollars, quarter eagles, and half dollars. Struck in bronze, this piece showcases the detailed die work typical of American commemorative medals. Bronze's natural patina gives aged examples an appealing warm-brown surface that collectors prize. 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. 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. This piece is a variant of HK-408, distinguished by differences in composition, die state, or striking characteristics that merit a separate catalog entry in the Hibler-Kappen reference.

Rarity Notes

Strikings of HK-408a are 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-408a; PCGS #643880; NGC #851758