1919 So-Called Dollar HK-669a, Essex Centennial

Coin Details

Description

HK-669 is a 1919 so-called dollar commemorating Essex Centennial in Massachusetts. Community centennial celebrations followed a well-established pattern: a planning committee organized events, commissioned a commemorative medal, and distributed pieces to attendees as lasting souvenirs of the celebration. This bronze so-called dollar represents the standard commemorative medal composition of its era. Bronze pieces were often the primary production run, with silver reserved for presentation copies and white metal for budget editions. The Medallic Art Company was founded in 1903 in Manhattan by Henri Weil, who learned the Janvier reduction machine technique in Paris and repurposed die-stamping equipment from Deitsch Brothers, a ladies' handbag manufacturer, for medal production. Massachusetts communities have produced commemorative medals since the earliest days of the republic, with the state's concentration of colonial history, maritime heritage, and intellectual achievement providing rich subject matter. The Hibler-Kappen catalog has been updated and expanded since its 1963 first edition, with later researchers adding newly discovered varieties and extending coverage into the modern era. Local commemorative medals from 1900-1930 reflect the Progressive Era's civic enthusiasm and the influence of the great exposition movement on community celebrations across the country.

Rarity Notes

HK-669 is scarce among so-called dollar collectors. Local commemorative medals from the Progressive Era were typically produced in limited quantities for distribution at the celebration event.

Cross References

HK-669; PCGS #643219