1958 HK-517, Minnesota Statehood Cent. Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$120 MS65 04-26-2022 Stack's Bowers

Description

Designated HK-517 in the Hibler-Kappen catalog, this 1958 piece commemorates Minnesota Statehood Cent. The Century of Progress featured the Sky Ride, transporting visitors 218 feet above the lagoon in enclosed cars suspended between two 628-foot steel towers, and pioneered windowless buildings using prefabricated Masonite and plywood. 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. Later exposition medals were produced by a mix of U.S. Mint issues and private manufacturers, with many struck in lower quantities than the great 19th-century fairs. The Century of Progress and New York World's Fair generated the most varieties. 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.

Rarity Notes

Strikings of HK-517 are scarce. Post-war era medals were often distributed at events, with many entering circulation as pocket pieces rather than being preserved as collectibles.

Cross References

HK-517; PCGS #642879; NGC #850850