1915 HK-413, Panama-Pacific Expo Dollar

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as HK-413, this 1915 so-called dollar honors Panama-Pacific Expo. The exposition's amusement area, called 'The Zone,' featured a working model of the Panama Canal, a recreation of Yellowstone Park, and a five-acre scale model of the Grand Canyon. The bronze composition of this piece reflects the medallic tradition dating to classical antiquity. Bronze so-called dollars typically survive in better condition than white metal examples due to the alloy's greater hardness and durability. 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 HK numbering system established by Hibler and Kappen in 1963 brought order to hundreds of previously uncataloged American commemorative medals, many of which had been ignored by mainstream numismatic references.

Rarity Notes

So-called dollars from the early 20th century were produced in limited quantities for distribution at events or through numismatic channels. Examples of HK-413 are scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-413; PCGS #643901; NGC #850685