From late-1907 to early-1909, the United States Navy embarked on a world tour that was part goodwill, part training and part display of America’s naval might. The group of 16 battleships and their escorts, known as the Great White Fleet, was led by Rear Admiral Robley D. Evans, also known as “Fighting Bob.” Medals were made to commemorate the fleet’s visit to the U.S. Pacific Coast in 1908. This example of the 1908 U.S. Navy World Voyage Medal was struck in brass with a reeded edge and is listed as HK-351 in the Hibler-Kappen reference on So-Called Dollars. This 1908 HK-351 medal has been graded MS62 by NGC and is encapsulated in a newer-style edge-view holder. The bright golden colored medal is in nice condition overall. Very lustrous and strong prooflike fields dominate the look of the piece, although no PL designation was awarded by NGC. Light handling marks are present in the open fields and some light discolorations are present, particularly near the rims and on the reverse. Despite the relatively low MS62 mint state grade of this piece, it is still among the finest known examples. A single MS63 example of the HK-351, and a couple of prooflike designated examples are the only examples that have been graded higher by NGC. A nice example of this interesting Fighting Bob dollar. |