Numismatic

1915-S Gold $1.00 Panama-Pacific MS-62 PCGS

---

Struck in 1915 at the San Francisco Mint, this small gold dollar carries a dual purpose in its commemoration. It was minted specifically to mark the completion of the Panama Canal alongside the Panama-Pacific International Exposition, an event that simultaneously heralded the reconstruction of San Francisco following the devastating earthquake of 1906. This coin was distributed solely at the exposition grounds, making it a direct artifact of the world's fair. The obverse of the coin, designed by Charles Keck, presents the profile of a canal laborer wearing a cap, a rare depiction of working-class effort on official currency. The year 1915 is clearly inscribed beneath his bust. On the reverse, two dolphins curve around the central denomination of ONE DOLLAR. These marine creatures were chosen to represent the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, now linked by the newly opened canal. Out of an original mintage of 25,000 pieces, more than 10,000 were returned to the furnace and melted down the following year. This particular survivor has been certified in Mint State 62 (MS-62) condition, preserving its historical design in 90 percent pure gold.