1900 Lafayette Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$86,250 MS67 04-01-2008 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1900 Lafayette Dollar is a commemorative dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of 36,026, this is a scarce commemorative issue. Struck in 1900 as the first commemorative silver dollar issued by the United States, this coin raised funds for the Lafayette monument erected in Paris. The obverse features conjoined busts of George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette facing right, honoring the alliance between America and France, while the reverse displays Lafayette mounted on horseback raising his sword, based on the Paul Wayland Bartlett statue erected in Paris. Designed by Charles E. Barber. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #9222. With a net distribution of approximately 36,026 pieces after unsold coins were melted, the Lafayette Dollar is a significant classic commemorative. Its distinction as the first commemorative silver dollar and first coin to depict an American president makes it a cornerstone of any advanced collection.