1000 Gourdes Bicentenary of the United States

Issuer Haiti (1804-date)
Year 1974-1975
Type Non-circulating coin
Value 1000 Gourdes (1000 HTG)
Currency Third gourde (1872-date)
Composition Gold (.900)
Weight 13 g
Diameter 32 mm
Thickness 3.5 mm
Shape Round
Technique Milled
Orientation Coin alignment ↑↓
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#118.1, KM#118.2
Obverse description Battle scene
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering REPUBLIQUE D`HAITI 1776-1976 BICENTENAIRE DES U.S.A. `SAVANNAH` BICENTENNIAL OF U.S.A.
(Translation: Republic of Haiti Bicentennial of [the] U.S.A.)
Reverse description Coat of Arms
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE 900 1000 GOURDES 1975
(Translation: Liberty Equality Brotherhood)
Edge Reeded
Mint
Mintage 1974 - KM#118.1 - 3 040
1974 - KM#118.2; Error without country name at top -
1974 - Proof; KM#118.1 - 480
1975 - Proof; KM#118.1 -
Numisquare ID 1681794740
Additional information

Historical Context: Issued 1974-1975, this 1000 Gourdes gold coin emerged during Jean-Claude Duvalier's presidency in Haiti. This era saw Haiti attempting to project a modern international image despite internal repression. The coin commemorates the United States Bicentenary, a significant diplomatic gesture from Haiti, the first independent black republic, acknowledging its influential North American neighbor's 200th anniversary.

Artistry: While the specific engraver is undocumented, the design adheres to a modern commemorative style typical of the mid-1970s. The obverse features the intricate Haitian coat of arms: a palm tree surmounted by a Phrygian cap, symbolizing liberty, flanked by cannons. The reverse design focuses on the United States Bicentenary, likely incorporating symbolic American imagery such as the Liberty Bell or an eagle, alongside the dates "1776-1976."

Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine gold, weighing 13 grams and 32 millimeters, this substantial coin generally exhibits a sharp strike. Key high-points for assessing wear or strike weakness include the palm fronds and Phrygian cap on the obverse's coat of arms, and any eagle's feathers or allegorical figures on the reverse. Collectors should seek full definition in devices and clear fields, as minor imperfections impact grading for these often proof-like or brilliant uncirculated issues.

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