Keystone Watch Case Co. 1893 World's Columbian Exposition Souvenir Medal (So-Called Dollar variant)
Country of Origin: United States, Keystone Watch Case Co. (Philadelphia, PA)
Year of Issue: 1893
Denomination: No face value (Advertising Medal / Souvenir)
Composition: White Metal / German Silver (Nickel-Copper-Zinc alloy)
Brief Description
A watch-shaped advertising medal with a top loop, commemorating the 1893 Chicago World's Fair.
Historical Significance
Issued for the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago, one of the most influential world's fairs. The Philadelphia-based Keystone Watch Case Co. used this to promote their 'Non-Pull-Out' watch bows.
Estimated Value
$15-$40 in circulated condition; $75-$150 in high-grade or uncirculated condition
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish, as this removes original patina. Store in an acid-free holder to prevent environmental corrosion of white metal.
Mint Mark
None (Privately struck in Philadelphia)
Mintage & Rarity
Common for fair souvenirs; thousands produced, but high-grade specimens are scarcer.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 10-12 grams; approx. 35mm (excluding the watch bow)
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine; shows significant surface wear, small scratches, and darkening/toning consistent with age and handling.
Obverse (Front)
Features a globe centered on the Western Hemisphere with 'PHILA' marked; legend 'COMPLIMENTS OF KEYSTONE WATCH CASE CO.' surrounds. Top features a watch-style bow marked 'NON-PULL-OUT'.
Reverse (Back)
Shield-like design with the text 'SOUVENIR WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION CHICAGO 1893' in various fonts.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. Value increases significantly if the top 'bow' is intact and sturdy, and if the original white metal luster remains.
Similar Coins
HK-225 (official medals) and various other Chicago 1893 trade tokens. This is distinguished by its unique watch-shaped silhouette.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for the crispness of the 'NON-PULL-OUT' lettering on the bow. Most examples are genuine as they were widely distributed mass-market items.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Versions exist in different metal finishes (rarely gilt) and slight variations in the engraving of the globe.
Created At: 2026-06-23T18:56:06.246753