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The Certified Lafayette Dollar of 1900, graded MS63 by NGC, represents a significant milestone in American numismatics. This coin was issued to commemorate the centennial of the death of the Marquis de Lafayette, a key figure in the American Revolutionary War. The coin, cataloged as KM#1, was minted to honor Lafayette’s contributions to American independence and to celebrate the strong historical ties between the United States and France.
The Marquis de Lafayette, born Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, was a French aristocrat who played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War. His military leadership and personal contributions were crucial to the success of the American cause. Lafayette's involvement in the Revolutionary War earned him a place of honor in American history, and his legacy was celebrated through this commemorative coin. The 1900 Lafayette Dollar was struck to mark the 100th anniversary of his death, reflecting the enduring respect for his role in securing American independence.
The design of the Lafayette Dollar is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of early 20th-century American coinage. The obverse of the coin features a detailed portrait of the Marquis de Lafayette. The portrait captures Lafayette’s dignified appearance, complete with his characteristic hairstyle and military uniform. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “LAFAYETTE” and the dates “1757” and “1834,” indicating his birth and death. This design element emphasizes the coin’s commemorative purpose and serves as a tribute to Lafayette’s lasting impact on American history.
The reverse side of the coin depicts Lafayette’s coat of arms. The coat of arms includes a heraldic shield supported by two figures, symbolizing his noble lineage and military achievements. At the top of the design is an eagle, representing American freedom and sovereignty. The inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR” encircle the coat of arms, identifying the coin’s country of origin and its denomination. This reverse design reinforces the connection between Lafayette’s contributions and American values, underscoring the coin’s significance as a commemorative artifact.
The Lafayette Dollar was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was renowned for its high-quality coinage production during this period. The coin is composed of silver, chosen for its aesthetic qualities and durability. The minting process involved precise craftsmanship to ensure that each coin met the highest standards of quality. The choice of silver reflects both the coin’s value and its role as a commemorative piece rather than a standard circulating coin.
Approximately 50,000 Lafayette Dollars were minted, making it a relatively limited issue. The small mintage adds to the coin’s rarity and collectible value. The limited number of coins produced reflects the specific nature of the commemorative event, highlighting the coin’s role as a historical artifact. The restricted mintage enhances the coin’s desirability among collectors and underscores its significance in American numismatics.
The MS63 grade assigned by NGC signifies that the coin is in Mint State condition, with only minor imperfections visible under magnification. The MS63 grade indicates that the coin has been well-preserved, exhibiting strong detail and original luster with minimal wear. This high-grade certification enhances the coin’s value and appeal, making it a prized item for collectors and numismatists. The certification by NGC ensures that the coin’s authenticity and condition are accurately represented, providing confidence to potential buyers and collectors.
The Certified Lafayette Dollar of 1900 is a highly sought-after collectible, valued for its historical significance, design, and limited mintage. The coin’s design reflects the artistic style of the early 20th century and serves as a lasting tribute to the Marquis de Lafayette. Its limited mintage and high-grade certification contribute to its rarity and desirability, making it an important piece in American numismatics.
As a commemorative coin, the Lafayette Dollar continues to be a symbol of the enduring respect for Lafayette’s role in American history. The coin’s design, minting, and certification highlight its significance as a historical artifact and a collectible item. The Certified Lafayette Dollar of 1900, with its MS63 grade, stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of early 20th-century American coinage and the enduring legacy of the Marquis de Lafayette.