Lot 1498
1883 Hawaiian Eighth Dollar. NGC graded Proof 67 Red & Brown KM-4A. Struck in Copper. A wonderful rich red brown Proof. 18 struck. From the same 4-piece copper Pattern set as several of the other high-grade examples in this sale. Brilliant fiery red and gold surfaces with splashes of lilac and rose, some of the most gorgeous colors a collector will ever see on a Hawaiian pattern coin. A perfect match for the Proof 66 pattern quarter dollar from this consignment (which see). This pleasing Superb Proof example is also one of the most talked-about denominations in Hawaiian numismatics, the rare eighth dollar or "Hapawalu," only issued in Proof, none authorized for circulation. Proof patterns in copper are from the same dies that struck the silver Proofs. Pop 1; the only red brown graded at NGC.
Historic note: In their request to have coins struck by the United States government, the Hawaiian Kingdom headed by King Kalakaua ordered four denominations: a one-eighth dollar (Hapawalu), a one-quarter dollar (Hapaha), a half dollar (Hapalua), and a silver dollar (Akahi Dala). All of the denominations, except the eighth dollar, conformed to American coins in size, weight and value. Because the Hapawalu would have required specially made blanks, a ten-cent piece or Dime denomination (Umi Keneta) was substituted for the Hapawalu. No Hapawalus were struck for circulation, but when 20 special presentation Proof sets were made at the Philadelphia Mint, Hapawalus were included along with the other four denominations.
The Philadelphia Mint produced 18 Hapawalus in copper from the Proof dies and included them in four-piece sets (12 1/2c, 25c, 50c, and $1).
Estimated Value $10,000 - 15,000.
Ex: John Daggett (Superintendent, San Francisco Mint 1893-97) as part of a complete 4-piece copper Pattern set; Hallie Daggett (John Daggett's daughter); Earl Parker; sold to Gordon Medcalf, 1961; Sold to Al Ostheimer; Superior Auction Feb 1975 Lot 1540;Ronald Russell; Present Owner (9/09 Collection).
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| Realized $46,000 |
