Owner Comments:
SO-CALLED DOLLAR APPEARANCE/CONDITION:
”Nickel-Silver” Variety — NGC Notes “Residue” (Explained Below)
*NGC would not fully authenticate this example because of the “gold residue on the reverse. This is “highly” ironic due to the way the issue was made. Images in the SCD Guide by Hibler and Kappen have the plate image without the gold nugget; meaning it was removed post production. However, I have seen a graded example with the full gold nuggets still intact. With this example, there are “remanence” of the gold nugget on the reverse and NGC deemed this as “Residue?” From what is sounds like, they did not do their historical research on this piece. — This is unfortunate because it is such a rare issue and one that is in phenomenal shape. There are 2 possible options: crack it out and send it in again to see if the same results are received or send it to NCS regarding removal of the “residue.” I will think over what option I’ll end up pursuing. — Gorgeous, sharp devices enhance the overall medal with areas of light toning.*
SO-CALLED DOLLAR BACKGROUND:
Private issue struck for the 1959 “Rush to the Rockies” centennial celebration. Based on the SCD Guide by Hibler and Kappen, there are 2 varieties known: the nickel-silver shown here (HK-543) and one in bronze (HK-543A). Both are extraordinary rare. As of April 2023, only 4 examples of the 543 have been graded by NGC and 5 of the 543A. Between the two, not 10 examples have been graded. Therefore, I feel lucky to have this medal in my collection.
CATALOG NUMBER: HK-543
RARITY:
(NGC Pop in All Grades = 4): [04/2023]
Rarity Level 4 = ~201-500 Known - Designated "Very Scarce” to “Rare”
**NOTE: Based on the number graded, it is clear the rarity level listed by Hibler and Kappen is inaccurate. This issue is exceedingly rare; likely an R7.
SO-CALLED DOLLAR DESCRIPTION:
(Business Strike, Nickel-Silver, 33mm, Round, Plain Edge)
OBVERSE: In center is nugget or lump of simulated gold; above, around Gold Rush Celebration; below 1859--1959
REVERSE: Covered wagon drawn by oxen proceeding l.; above, at border, is small wreath / Colorado / Centennial State; below wagon Souvenir
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND:
(“Gold” Nugget Dollar):
“Privately issued as centennial souvenir; about 5,000 struck and sold for $1. It was reported that several major varieties appeared but this is only type actually known to authors.“ — Credited Source: So-Called Dollars by Harold E. Hibler and Charles V. Kappen