Catalog
| Issuer | Hawaii |
|---|---|
| Year | 1883 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/4 Dollar |
| Currency | Dollar (1847-1898) |
| Composition | Silver (.900) (Copper .100) |
| Weight | 6.3 g |
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Charles Edward Barber |
| In circulation to | 1 January 1904 |
| Reference(s) | KM#5 |
| Obverse description | Bust of King Kalākaua I facing right, date below |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | KALAKAUA I KING OF HAWAII · 1883 · |
| Reverse description | Crowned Arms (Main features: The quartered shield has in the 1st and 4th quarters; the red, white and blue stripes representing the eight inhabited Hawaiian islands. The 2nd and 3rd quarters have two emblems of taboo. The inner escutcheon has crossed spears and the shield in surmounted by the Crown of Hawaii.) |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
UA MAU KE EA O KA AINA I KA PONO. 1/4 D HAPAHA (Translation: The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness, Fourth) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1883 - `1383` overpunch error - 1883 - only 242,600 remain - 500 000 1883 - Proof - 26 |
| Numisquare ID | 5224208920 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1883 Hawaiian 1/4 Dollar emerged during King Kalākaua I's reign, a period of modernization and increasing foreign influence. This coinage was an assertion of sovereignty and economic independence. Kalākaua, the "Merrie Monarch," sought to revive traditional culture while strengthening the nation's international standing. This series marked the first comprehensive national coinage since 1847, symbolizing a confident and self-governing kingdom.
Artistry: Charles E. Barber, Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, designed this quarter dollar. Its artistry reflects the American Neoclassical stylistic school, characterized by clean lines and classical elements. The obverse features a dignified bust of King Kalākaua I, encircled by his name and the "1883" date. The reverse proudly displays the Hawaiian coat of arms, including the royal motto "UA MAU KE EA O KA AINA I KA PONO," flanked by kāhili, within a wreath and surmounted by a crown.
Technical/Grading: Key high-points for assessing this 1/4 Dollar include the hair details above the ear and the cheekbone on the obverse. On the reverse, the shield's central elements, the crown's jewels, and the tips of the kāhili are crucial. Though generally well-struck by the San Francisco Mint, slight weakness can sometimes appear on these highest relief areas. Fields typically exhibit good original luster, often cartwheel, and denticles are usually sharp, reflecting consistent quality.