1878 PA Vally Forge Centennial NGC MS65 BN HK-137 So-Called Dollar SC$1
1878 PA Vally Forge Centennial NGC MS65 BN HK-137 So-Called Dollar SC$1
A Gem Mint State example of the historic 1878 Valley Forge Centennial So-Called Dollar, certified NGC MS65 BN and listed as HK-137.
Struck for the Valley Forge Centennial observance in Philadelphia, this bronze medal commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Continental Army’s departure from Valley Forge on June 19, 1778. The obverse presents a right-facing bust of George Washington, encircled by the inscription “GEORGE WASHINGTON COMMANDER IN CHIEF,” with star separators. The reverse features a wreath motif framing the commemorative inscription “IN COMMEMORATION OF THE DEPARTURE OF THE CONTINENTAL ARMY JUNE 19,” with the outer legend “VALLEY FORGE CENTENNIAL” and the dates “1778–1878.”
Certified MS65 BN by NGC, this Choice Gem displays rich, even brown surfaces with warm mahogany and chocolate-bronze coloration. The design elements are sharply rendered, with strong definition in Washington’s portrait, the legends, and the wreath detail on the reverse. The fields are pleasingly preserved for the grade, offering the smooth, refined appearance expected of a premium Mint State bronze So-Called Dollar.
The Valley Forge Centennial issue occupies an important place among 19th-century American commemorative medals and So-Called Dollars, connecting collectors to one of the defining episodes of the Revolutionary War. Valley Forge remains an enduring symbol of perseverance, sacrifice, and national resolve, and this 1878 medal served as a tangible centennial tribute to that legacy.
Cataloged as HK-137 in the Hibler-Kappen reference, this issue is widely collected by specialists in So-Called Dollars, Washingtoniana, Pennsylvania historical medals, and American centennial commemoratives. In Gem Brown condition, it offers both historical resonance and advanced collector appeal.
A handsome and historically meaningful Valley Forge Centennial So-Called Dollar, combining Washington iconography, Revolutionary War heritage, and Gem Mint State preservation.
| PCGS # | |
| Grading Service | NGC |
| Grade | MS65 |
| Mint Location | Philadelphia |
| Year | 1878 |
| Designation | BN |
| Strike | Business |
| Grade Add On | NONE |
