1915 So-Called Dollar HK-417, Exposition City Dollar

Coin Details

Description

HK-417 is a 1915 so-called dollar commemorating Exposition City. Bernard Maybeck's Palace of Fine Arts, built as a temporary structure in a Romantic classical style inspired by Roman ruins, was the only exposition building preserved and later reconstructed in permanent materials. 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

Examples of HK-417 are scarce among so-called dollar collectors. Early 20th century commemorative medals survive in varying numbers depending on original mintage and subsequent preservation.

Cross References

HK-417; PCGS #643912; NGC #850694