1915 HK-414, Brass Panama Canal Completion Expo Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$336 MS64DMPL 08-22-2021 Heritage Auctions

Description

This commemorative so-called dollar (HK-414) from 1915 celebrates Panama Canal Completion Expo. 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. The brass composition gives this piece a warm golden tone that distinguishes it from bronze and copper versions. Brass commemorative medals were produced in moderate quantities and tend to survive in better condition than white metal issues. 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, 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-414 is common to moderately 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-414; PCGS #643905; NGC #850686