Even if you're a collector of old coins, you still probably haven't heard of the Hapawalu. However, this exceedingly rare model is a significant part of Hawaii's history. If you're wondering what makes this coin so important or so unique, this quick guide will fill you in.

The History of the Hapawalu Coin

Shortly before 1883, the ruling monarch in Hawaii authorized the kingdom's first silver coins to be issued. Produced at the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, these coins were presented to the king and queen several months later.

Of the entire order, one of the coin types was missing due to an error. The Hapawalu coin, which was part of the order, had been issued by the San Francisco Mint and couldn't be located. The king approved the set of coins set before him, and the Umi Keneta took the place of the missing Hapawalu. The Hapawalu was then forgotten about for over half a century.

Why It’s So Rare

Out of the order of coins sent to the San Francisco Mint, only six of them were Hapawalus. In 1884, 20 silver Hapawalu coins were minted, but only 11 remain. No one knows what happened to the other nine silvers.

There are only 17 known Hapawalus that exist today. One of the copper Hapawalu coins currently resides at the Royal Hawaiian Mint, while others belong to old coin enthusiasts. Their scarcity and historical significance, paired with the fact that they've never circulated, drives up their value. In 2011, a Hapawalu was sold at an auction for $43,125.

Interested in old coins? Hawaiian Islands Stamp & Coin in Honolulu is your local coin, stamp, and collectible authority. President Don Medcalf, a trusted figure in the world of numismatics and the President of the Stamp and Coin Dealers Association of Hawaii, has garnered a trusted reputation among old coin enthusiasts and collectors alike. His expert team of appraisers offers knowledgeable and fair assessments on coins, confederate notes, and even military pay certificates. Learn more about their available coins online, or call (808) 531-6251 with any questions you have.