1922 Copper So-Called Dollar HK-737, Rogers Bros, 75th Copper-Nickel

Coin Details

Description

This commemorative medal (HK-737) from 1922 celebrates Rogers Bros. in Connecticut. Commemorative medals honoring individuals have been part of American medallic tradition since the nation's founding, with subjects ranging from presidents and military heroes to local civic leaders and cultural figures. Copper so-called dollars were produced in moderate quantities, offering event attendees and collectors an affordable commemorative at the time of issue. Original red copper surfaces are scarce, with most survivors showing brown patina. After relocations from Manhattan to Danbury, Connecticut (1972), Sioux Falls, South Dakota (1991), and Dayton, Nevada (1997), the company's archive of 50,000 items including 20,000 dies was rescued by the American Numismatic Society in 2018. 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. The early 20th century saw a flourishing of local commemorative medal production, as improved manufacturing techniques and growing civic consciousness combined to make medal issuance accessible to communities of all sizes.

Rarity Notes

Examples of HK-737 are common to moderately scarce. Distribution was usually limited to event attendees and local residents, with surviving pieces ranging from well-worn pocket pieces to carefully preserved specimens.

Cross References

HK-737; PCGS #643391