1953 So-Called Dollar HK-509b, Louisiana Purchase Sesqui

Coin Details

Description

HK-509b is a 1953 so-called dollar commemorating Louisiana Purchase Sesqui. The 1904 Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis occupied 1,272 acres in Forest Park — twice the size of the Columbian Exposition — making it the largest world's fair in history, with 1,500 buildings and exhibits from 62 nations. Struck in bronze, this piece combines durability with an attractive warm tone that deepens with age into a rich chocolate-brown patina. Bronze was the preferred composition for many commemorative medals due to its excellent detail retention. Official exposition medals were struck alongside the landmark Jefferson and McKinley gold dollars. Private manufacturers produced additional commemorative pieces sold to the 19.7 million fairgoers. Morgan's artistic legacy extends beyond coinage to include numerous commemorative medals that showcase his distinctive portrait and eagle designs. The HK numbering system established by Hibler and Kappen in 1963 brought order to hundreds of previously uncataloged American commemorative medals, many of which had been ignored by mainstream numismatic references. This piece is a variant of HK-509, distinguished by differences in composition, die state, or striking characteristics that merit a separate catalog entry in the Hibler-Kappen reference.

Rarity Notes

HK-509b 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-509b; PCGS #642861; NGC #851585