1922 So-Called Dollar HK-670a, Hampden Memorial Bridge

Coin Details

Description

Cataloged as HK-670A, this 1922 so-called dollar commemorates Hampden Memorial Bridge in Massachusetts. Architectural commemorative medals preserve the memory of buildings, bridges, and monuments that shaped American communities, with designs often featuring detailed renderings of the structures themselves. 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. 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. From Plymouth Rock to Bunker Hill, Massachusetts' central role in American history generated numerous commemorative medals celebrating the milestones of communities that shaped the nation's founding and development. 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. 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. This piece is a variant of HK-670, distinguished by differences in composition, die state, or striking characteristics.

Rarity Notes

Local commemorative so-called dollars from the interwar period survive in varying quantities. Examples of HK-670A are scarce in the numismatic market.

Cross References

HK-670A; PCGS #643221