1974 Hawaiian Medal - Panama Canal 1904, Silver 40mm

Coin Details

Auction Record

$65 SP64 10-14-2021 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1974 silver medal commemorates the 1904 commencement of American construction on the Panama Canal. While not directly Hawaiian in subject matter, this piece was produced as part of a broader series of Pacific-themed historical commemorative medals marketed to Hawaiian collectors and tourists during the 1970s. The connection between Hawaii and the Panama Canal is more significant than it might first appear. The canal, completed in 1914, dramatically shortened the shipping route between the U.S. East Coast and Hawaii, transforming Pacific trade patterns and making the islands more accessible to commerce and tourism. The canal also had major military implications, allowing rapid naval redeployment between the Atlantic and Pacific fleets based at Pearl Harbor. The 40mm silver medal was produced during a period of intense private mint activity in Hawaii, when several companies produced commemorative medal series covering Hawaiian and Pacific historical themes. These pieces were sold both to collectors and as tourist souvenirs in Waikiki and other visitor destinations.

Rarity Notes

Uncommon. Limited private mint production, several hundred examples struck in silver.

Cross References

PCGS #881963