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The US Commemorative Lafayette Dollar of 1900 is a remarkable piece of numismatic history, issued to commemorate the centennial of the death of the Marquis de Lafayette. This coin, cataloged as KM#1, was produced to honor the enduring legacy of Lafayette, a key figure in the American Revolutionary War who played a pivotal role in securing American independence. The year 1900 was chosen to mark the 100th anniversary of Lafayette’s death, providing a fitting tribute to his contributions to both American and French history.
The Marquis de Lafayette, born Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, was a French aristocrat who became a hero of the American Revolutionary War. His contributions to the American cause, including his leadership and military expertise, were instrumental in the success of the revolution. Lafayette’s legacy was celebrated not only in the United States but also in France, where he was regarded as a national hero. The Lafayette Dollar was issued to honor his memory and the strong ties between the two nations.
The coin features a distinctive design that reflects the artistic style of the early 20th century. On the obverse, the coin displays a finely detailed portrait of the Marquis de Lafayette. The portrait captures Lafayette’s distinguished appearance, complete with his characteristic hairstyle and military uniform. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “LAFAYETTE” and the dates “1757” and “1834,” marking his birth and death respectively. This design emphasizes the coin’s commemorative purpose and serves as a tribute to Lafayette’s lasting impact on American history.
The reverse side of the Lafayette Dollar features a depiction of Lafayette’s coat of arms. The coat of arms includes a heraldic shield supported by two figures, symbolizing Lafayette’s noble lineage and military achievements. At the top of the design is an eagle, representing American freedom and sovereignty. Surrounding the coat of arms are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “ONE DOLLAR,” indicating the coin’s value and country of origin. The reverse design reinforces the connection between Lafayette’s contributions and American values, underscoring the coin’s commemorative significance.
The Lafayette Dollar was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, which was renowned for its high-quality coinage production during this era. The coin is made from a silver alloy, chosen for its aesthetic appeal and durability. The minting process involved meticulous craftsmanship to ensure that each coin met the highest standards of quality. The choice of silver reflects both the coin’s value and its intended role as a commemorative artifact rather than a standard circulating piece.
Approximately 50,000 Lafayette Dollars were minted, making this a relatively limited issue. The limited mintage adds to the coin’s rarity and collectible value, as it was produced specifically to commemorate a significant historical event. The small number of coins issued reflects the specific nature of the commemorative purpose, highlighting the coin’s role as a historical artifact rather than a widely circulated currency.
Although this particular Lafayette Dollar is in AU (About Uncirculated) condition with light cleaning, it still retains much of its historical and collectible value. The coin's AU grade indicates that it has been well-preserved with minimal wear, although the light cleaning may have affected its original luster and surface quality. Despite this, the coin remains an important piece of American numismatic history, valued for its design, historical significance, and limited mintage.
The issuance of the Lafayette Dollar was part of a broader trend in early 20th-century American numismatics, where commemorative coins were used to honor notable figures and events. The coin’s design and mintage reflect the desire to celebrate Lafayette’s contributions to American independence and to preserve his memory for future generations. The Lafayette Dollar stands as a testament to the enduring respect and admiration for Lafayette’s role in shaping the course of history.
Today, the US Commemorative Lafayette Dollar of 1900 is a highly collectible item, prized by numismatists and collectors for its historical significance and limited mintage. The coin’s design, minting, and rarity contribute to its value, making it a sought-after piece for those interested in American history and early 20th-century coinage. The Lafayette Dollar continues to serve as a lasting tribute to the Marquis de Lafayette and his contributions to both American and French history.