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The Hawaii 10 Cents 1883 KM#3 VF silver coin is a fascinating artifact from the Kingdom of Hawaii, a sovereign state that existed from 1795 until its annexation by the United States in 1898. This coin represents a significant period in Hawaiian history when the kingdom was asserting its independence and modernizing its economy through the issuance of its own currency. The 10 cent coin of 1883 is particularly notable for its historical context, unique design, and the circumstances surrounding its minting and mintage.
The history of the Hawaiian coinage dates back to the reign of King Kalakaua, who ruled the Kingdom of Hawaii from 1874 to 1891. In 1883, King Kalakaua authorized the minting of a series of silver coins to facilitate trade and commerce within the kingdom and to reduce the reliance on foreign currencies. These coins included denominations of 10 cents, 25 cents, 50 cents, and 1 dollar. The coins were struck at the San Francisco Mint, as Hawaii did not have its own minting facilities. The introduction of these coins marked a significant step in the kingdom's efforts to establish a stable and independent monetary system.
The design of the Hawaii 10 Cents 1883 KM#3 silver coin is both elegant and symbolic. The obverse features a right-facing portrait of King Kalakaua, the last reigning king of Hawaii. Around the portrait are the inscriptions "KALAKAUA I KING OF HAWAII," emphasizing his royal status and authority. The likeness of the king was designed by Charles Barber, the chief engraver at the U.S. Mint, known for his work on various American coin designs.
The reverse of the coin is equally impressive, featuring the Hawaiian coat of arms. The coat of arms is a detailed and intricate design that includes a shield divided into quarters, representing the eight main islands of Hawaii. The shield is flanked by two Kamehameha warriors, symbolizing strength and protection. Above the shield is a crown, signifying the monarchy, and below is a banner with the motto "UA MAU KE EA O KA AINA I KA PONO," which translates to "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness." This motto is deeply significant in Hawaiian culture and reflects the values and principles of the kingdom.
The Hawaii 10 Cents 1883 KM#3 coin was struck in 90% silver, with a diameter of 17.9 mm and a weight of 2.67 grams. The coin's edge is reeded, a common feature in coinage that helps prevent counterfeiting and adds to the coin's aesthetic appeal. The San Francisco Mint produced a total of 250,000 of these 10 cent coins in 1883. However, a significant number of these coins were later melted down following Hawaii's annexation by the United States, making surviving examples relatively scarce and highly sought after by collectors.
The VF (Very Fine) grade assigned to this coin indicates that it exhibits moderate wear from circulation, but all major design elements remain clear and legible. In VF condition, the coin retains much of its original detail, including the intricate features of King Kalakaua's portrait and the complex elements of the Hawaiian coat of arms. The wear is typically even, with some smoothing on the highest points of the design, but overall the coin maintains a pleasing appearance and significant historical value.
Beyond its numismatic value, the Hawaii 10 Cents 1883 KM#3 silver coin offers valuable insights into the history and culture of the Kingdom of Hawaii. It serves as a tangible reminder of a period when Hawaii was an independent nation, striving to assert its sovereignty and economic stability. The coin's design elements reflect the pride and heritage of the Hawaiian people, encapsulating important symbols of the kingdom's identity and governance.
In conclusion, the Hawaii 10 Cents 1883 KM#3 VF silver coin is a significant piece of Hawaiian history and a prized collectible. Its detailed design, historical context, and relative scarcity make it a valuable addition to any numismatic collection. The coin not only represents a pivotal moment in Hawaii's journey towards modernization and independence but also serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and enduring legacy of the Hawaiian monarchy. Collectors and historians alike treasure this coin for its beauty, historical significance, and the story it tells of Hawaii's past.