2017-05-27 Sat

Denver Mint officials started testing Mint equipment in 1905 to make sure that it is ready for production in 1906. The government wanted the Mint in action since Civil War era when Colorado had become famous of silver and gold rush. A private mint was bought in 1862, but federal coinage was not struck due to the revolt by the Indian tribes for not starting an official coinage. The building was used as a refuge from the Indians for women and children and then as a federal assay office. In December 1895 a mint was authorised in Denver and in September 1904, the old Assay Office was transferred to the new facility.

In 1905, local silver and gold ore was processed and on 1st November 1905, a coinage press struck some uniface bronze medals similar in size to a gold double eagle. On one side, the text DENVER 1905 was inscribed and the other side was blank. It had a dentiled rim on both sides and a reeded edge. These medals were a part of an opening ceremony which was attended by Colorado’s governor and other government officials. The medals were passed out to attendees.

One of those medals was auctioned in 2009 for $2,070. Experts believe that less than 75 pieces exist in all grades. An MS 63 red and brown version of the medal was offered at a recent auction as well.