Lot 1970
1928 Hawaiian Half Dollar. NGC graded MS-66. Lovely original toning. A beaming gem rolling in unbeatable cartwheel luster that emits boldly beneath the gorgeous toned highlights. Possessed of a much better-quality strike than is normally found for a Hawaiian half dollar.
This coin commemorates the 200th anniversary of the first European sighting of the Hawaiian or Sandwich Island chain by Captain James Cook in 1778. The Hawaiian had lived in peaceful harmony in their Garden of Eden for nearly 1,000 years, tribes warring with one another, reproducing as fast as rabbits to replace the casualties, and completely oblivious to the storm clouds brewing on the horizon. Until, that is, their societal bonds were torn asunder by European visitors. Cook was one of the most daring and admirable men of his day. He is commemorated here not only for his "discovery", but also because of his untimely demise at the hands of one of the natives who stabbed him in the back. This took place on Cook's second visit in 1779. The artist, Miss Juilette Mae Frazer, depicted a Hawaiian chief on the reverse. A similar high chief, Kamehameha I was the ruler of the Big Island (Hawaii) at the time of Cook's visit. A savvy giant of a man, Kamehameha acquired the latest military implements such as cannons and rifles in his drive to control the Island chain. This was finally accomplished in 1810 with the submission of Kauai, the northernmost island. Kamehameha died nine years later. In all, there were 9,950 Hawaiian Half Dollar Commemoratives sold, half of which were reserved for island residents. Another 50 sand-blast presentation Proofs were given to dignitaries. Pop 48; 6 finer. (PCGS # 9309) .
Estimated Value $7,500 - 8,500.
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| Realized $7,763 |
