1976 King Kamehameha Hawaii Dollar Honolulu Souvenir Medallion
Coin/Bullion (Souvenir Medallion or Trade Token) · Royal Hawaiian Mint (formerly Maui Mint)
Pattern: Hawaii Dollar Commemorative Series (King Kamehameha Dala)
Type
Coin/Bullion (Souvenir Medallion or Trade Token)
Maker
Royal Hawaiian Mint (formerly Maui Mint)
Material
Likely Bronze, Brass, or Gold-plated Copper Alloy (This specific image indicates a base metal with surface oxidation, not sterling silver)
Dimensions
Approximately 39mm in diameter (standard crown size); weight typically ranges from 25g to 31g depending on alloy
Description
A golden-hued commemorative souvenir medallion featuring the iconic statue of King Kamehameha I. These dalas were widely popular during the 1970s tourism boom in Hawaii, celebrating local heritage and the American Bicentennial. The obverse depicts the King in traditional regalia flanked by kahili (royal standards).
Key Features
Central figure of King Kamehameha, '1976' date stamp, and the specific 'Hawaii Dollar' nomenclature used by the Royal Hawaiian Mint
Material & Composition
Likely Bronze, Brass, or Gold-plated Copper Alloy (This specific image indicates a base metal with surface oxidation, not sterling silver)
Finish & Decoration
Matte textured background with raised (relief) design elements; features King Kamehameha I, kahili symbols, and the year 1976
Hallmarks & Stamps
No precious metal hallmarking visible; stamped with 'HAWAII DOLLAR', 'HONOLULU', '1976', and 'KING KAMEHAMEHA'
Construction Details
Die-struck (minted) with high-pressure coin presses using industrial steel dies
Functional Features
Commemorative token/souvenir dala; occasionally used as 'trade dollars' for local discounts in Hawaii during the mid-to-late 20th century
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard reeded or smooth coin edge
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade minting; clear die definition with textured 'orange peel' fields to make the central figure stand out
Authentication Indicators
Design matches known 1976 Hawaiian municipal trade tokens; die-struck lettering is sharp but the metal shows base-alloy oxidation inconsistent with fine silver
Origin & Manufacturing
United States (Hawaii); minted by the Royal Hawaiian Mint in Honolulu or Maui
Era & Period
Modern Era / Bicentennial Era (1976)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1976 (48 years old at time of analysis)
Cultural Significance
Represents the growth of the Hawaiian tourism industry and the preservation of Hawaiian titular history through numismatic art
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; shows significant surface patination (dark spots/oxidation) and minor rim dings; the 'golden' finish is wearing thin in some high areas
Value Estimate
$5 to $15 USD (nominal value as a base-metal souvenir; silver versions exist and are valued at much higher spot rates)
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver polish on this item as it appears to be plated or a base metal alloy; store in a PVC-free coin flip to prevent further oxidation
Similar Pieces
1883 King Kalakaua I Silver Dollar (authentic currency), Maui Trade Dollars, and current issue Royal Hawaiian Mint Silver Dalas (which are .925 or .999 silver)
Interesting Facts
The Royal Hawaiian Mint was founded in 1974 to celebrate the history of the Kalakaua coinage of 1883; these tokens are often collected as 'Hawaiiana'