1950 HK-505, California Statehood Uniface Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$270 MS64 11-16-2012 Stack's Bowers

Description

Designated HK-505 in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1950 piece commemorates California Statehood Uniface. New York's Crystal Palace exhibition of 1853-1854, designed by Georg Carstensen and Charles Gildemeister in a Greek cross plan with a 100-foot dome, was America's first international exhibition venue before fire destroyed it on October 5, 1858. Struck in bronze, this piece showcases the detailed die work typical of American commemorative medals. Bronze's natural patina gives aged examples an appealing warm-brown surface that collectors prize. Early commemorative medals were produced in small quantities by private die sinkers, with white metal and copper being the most common compositions. Distribution was typically limited to event participants and subscribers. The Hibler-Kappen catalog, first published in 1963 by Harold E. Hibler and Charles V. Kappen, systematically organized American so-called dollars for the first time, assigning HK numbers that remain the standard reference today.

Rarity Notes

HK-505 is scarce in the numismatic market. Production quantities for post-war era commemorative medals were typically modest, and survival rates vary significantly based on the original distribution method and the material's durability.

Cross References

HK-505; PCGS #644094; NGC #850829