1917 Aluminum So-Called Dollar HK-447, Vet. Corps of Artillery

Coin Details

Auction Record

$600 MS64PL 08-20-2019 Stack's Bowers

Description

Designated HK-447 in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1917 piece commemorates Vet. Corps of Artillery. The Century of Progress featured the Sky Ride, transporting visitors 218 feet above the lagoon in enclosed cars suspended between two 628-foot steel towers, and pioneered windowless buildings using prefabricated Masonite and plywood. The aluminum composition represents a modern departure from the traditional bronze, copper, and white metal palette of earlier so-called dollars. Aluminum's silvery-white appearance and durability made it practical for mass production. Later exposition medals were produced by a mix of U.S. Mint issues and private manufacturers, with many struck in lower quantities than the great 19th-century fairs. The Century of Progress and New York World's Fair generated the most varieties. Collectors of so-called dollars pursue pieces by exposition, metal type, engraver, geographic region, or historical theme, with complete sets of certain exposition groups being particularly prized accomplishments.

Rarity Notes

HK-447 is 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-447; PCGS #643965; NGC #850142