1915 HK-432, West Gate-Canal Completion Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$600 MS65BN 12-21-2020 Stack's Bowers

Description

This commemorative so-called dollar (HK-432) from 1915 celebrates West Gate-Canal Completion. 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. 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. Barber's clean, classical engraving style defined the look of official American exposition medals for over three decades of world's fairs. So-called dollars — defined as privately issued medals approximately the size of a silver dollar — encompass one of the most diverse and historically rich collecting fields in American numismatics.

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-432 are scarce, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-432; PCGS #643941; NGC #850712