1960 Hawaiian Trade Dollar - 50th State, Brass 39mm

Coin Details

Description

The 1960 "50th State" Hawaiian Dollar is a brass commemorative medal struck to celebrate Hawaii’s admission as the fiftieth state of the United States on August 21, 1959. Measuring 39 millimeters in diameter, this dollar-sized piece was produced during the peak of public enthusiasm for the new state, when Hawaiian-themed memorabilia and collectibles were in enormous demand across the American mainland. The piece draws on the rich visual vocabulary of Hawaiian numismatic tradition, connecting the modern celebration of statehood with the coinage heritage of the former Kingdom of Hawaii. By denominating the piece as a "dollar," the issuers deliberately evoked the famous 1883 Akahi Dala of King Kalakaua, the most iconic coin in Hawaiian numismatic history. The brass composition, however, clearly distinguishes this as a commemorative rather than a precious-metal issue. Hawaii’s path to statehood had been long and politically contentious, spanning decades of territorial status after the 1898 annexation. When statehood was finally achieved in 1959, it represented a transformative moment for the islands and generated a wave of patriotic celebration and commercial activity. Commemorative pieces like this 1960 dollar served dual purposes: they provided accessible souvenirs for tourists and mainland collectors, and they kept Hawaiian numismatic tradition alive by connecting modern collectors with the island chain’s distinctive coinage history. While not an official government issue or legal tender, the 50th State Dollar occupies a recognized niche in Hawaiian numismatics. It is cataloged by major reference works and grading services alongside the genuine kingdom coins, reflecting the broader collector interest in the complete story of Hawaiian money from the 1847 keneta through modern commemoratives.

Rarity Notes

Readily available in the collector market at moderate prices. Brass composition, not a precious metal issue. Mint state examples are common as most were saved as souvenirs rather than circulated.

Cross References

Medcalf-Russell 2MD; PCGS #922052; NGC #875533; post-statehood commemorative