Lot 1516
1928 Hawaiian Half Dollar. PCGS graded MS-64. Old green holder. A hint of light gold tone. The surfaces have an otherwise bright, metallic, satin-like sheen. No need to worry about an unsuccessful strike left by the rebound of the dies that coined this, since even a cursory examination of the piece reveals nice clarity of detail, including the highest points of the design.
The Hawaiians 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 gathering 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 a rising young force to be reckoned with on 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 rule the Island chain. This he finally accomplished in 1810 with the submission of Kauai, the northernmost island. Kamehameha died nine years later (PCGS # 9309) .
Estimated Value $2,500 - 2,700.
From the 9/09 Hawaii Collection.
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| Realized $2,875 |
