1916 McKinley $1 PCGS MS66 CAC

The 1916 McKinley Gold Dollar is a fascinating coin that links American history with the artistry of early twentieth century commemorative coinage. Struck to honor President William McKinley and to help fund the construction of a memorial in his birthplace of Niles, Ohio, it represents both a tribute to a fallen leader and an enduring collectible for numismatists. This example, certified MS66 by PCGS and verified by CAC, offers remarkable preservation and eye appeal, placing it among the finest available.

The McKinley Gold Dollar was issued in 1916 and 1917 as part of the U.S. commemorative series. McKinley, the nation’s 25th president, served from 1897 until his assassination in 1901. He is remembered for his steady leadership during the Spanish American War and his role in steering the United States toward economic expansion at the dawn of the new century. The coin was intended not only as a memorial but also as a practical fundraising tool to support the construction of the McKinley Birthplace Memorial.

The obverse design by Charles Barber features a left-facing portrait of McKinley. His image is finely detailed, with sharp lines and dignified expression, offering a fitting tribute to his role in American history. The inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and the date 1916 surround the portrait, while LIBERTY is inscribed above. On the reverse, George T. Morgan created an image of the planned memorial building, a neoclassical structure designed to honor McKinley’s memory. The inscriptions MCKINLEY BIRTHPLACE MEMORIAL and ONE DOLLAR frame the image, completing a design that reflects both artistry and symbolism.

A total of 20,000 coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 1916. However, not all were distributed to the public. Approximately 5,000 pieces went unsold and were later melted, leaving a net mintage of about 15,000 survivors. This relatively small supply contributes to the coin’s desirability today, particularly in high grades. Many coins that did circulate or were mishandled show significant marks, so well-preserved examples are scarce.

This specimen has been graded MS66 by PCGS, indicating superb preservation. The surfaces remain nearly pristine, with only the faintest signs of contact visible under magnification. The strike is sharp, highlighting the fine details in both McKinley’s portrait and the architectural lines of the memorial. Luster flows evenly across the fields, providing an attractive, radiant glow. The added CAC designation confirms that the coin meets the strictest standards for its grade, giving collectors confidence in its premium quality.

The appeal of the 1916 McKinley Gold Dollar rests on several factors. Historically, it represents one of the last U.S. gold commemoratives produced before the Gold Recall of 1933. Artistically, it combines the talents of Charles Barber and George T. Morgan, two of the most influential engravers in U.S. Mint history. Numismatically, its limited surviving population and relatively low mintage make it a challenge to acquire in high condition.

While the coin contains only 0.04837 troy ounces of gold, its value lies far beyond its bullion content. Collectors are drawn to its rarity, historical importance, and aesthetic beauty. At MS66 with CAC approval, it ranks among the most desirable examples of its type, appealing to advanced collectors who seek quality and distinction.

In summary, the 1916 McKinley Gold Dollar PCGS MS66 CAC is a numismatic treasure that combines history, artistry, and scarcity. Struck to honor a president whose life was cut short, it stands as a reminder of a nation’s respect and remembrance. With only about 15,000 survivors from its original mintage and very few achieving this level of preservation, it is an exceptional opportunity for collectors of classic gold commemoratives.