1901 Lesher or Referendum Dollar. Imprint Type. HK-791, Zerbe-5. Rarity-6. Silver. No. 1. MS-63 (PCGS).32 mm, octagonal. This sale represents our first offering for this elusive Lesher type in many years, a rare and highly significant bidding opportunity for the specialist. A lovely example, both sides are originally toned in a blend of light lilac-gray and warmer olive-russet iridescence. Sharply defined from the rims to the centers with plenty of satiny luster and only faint, wispy handling marks precluding an even higher Mint State grade. Stamped with the particularly desirable number 1 at the lower left obverse border.<p>These Referendum dollars were produced by Joseph W. Lesher, an Ohio native who became a Colorado silver camp worker, mine owner, real estate investor and, by the turn of the 20th century, an advocate of greater use of silver. He is credited with the designs of these pieces, all of which were struck by a private firm in Denver. The Imprint Type, offered here, was intended for distribution through merchants, who would acquire the pieces for 80 to 85 cents each and then either stamp or engrave their firms name in the blank space on the obverse, or have the dollars stamped to order. HK-791, however, is the Imprint Type without the addition of a merchants name. Rare, desirable, and sure to see spirited bidding among advanced collectors.
