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BRIAN BORU DOLLAR
1910
NEW YORK, NY
Medal commemorates and "typifies the spirit of the
Irish renaissance" in both Ireland and America; also was intended to serve
as "tribute to the indomitable spirit of the Irish race," honoring Irish and
Irish-American peoples in United States. Issued privately by Thomas L.
Elder, New York City coin dealer (see Part Ill for Elder biographical
sketch) under auspices of New York Numismatic Club; designed by Frank C.
Higgins; modeled by John Gelert, Swedish sculptor; struck by Medallic Art
Co.
Son of King of Munster and called "George Washington of
Ireland," Brian Boru (926-1014) was King of Ireland from 1002 to 1014. At
age of 88 he broke Danish power in Ireland for all time at Battle of
Clontarf, where he was slain on April 23, 1014.
While Elder sales catalogs, 1909 to 1912, provide
somewhat contradictory information as to extent of issue, it obviously was
very limited. Not more than 75 Silver and 225 Aluminum pieces were struck;
sold for $2.25 and $1 respectively. Bronze medals, only 6 to 8 in number,
apparently were trial pieces, not placed on public sale.
 
Obv. King Brian Boru facing, holding sword in r.
hand; above around, in Celtic Brian Boroime Ard Rig Eirinn
(Brian Boru, High King, Erin); below MXIV-MCMX (1014-1910);
microscopic H above dates; beaded border.
Rev. An involved Celtic design in form of a
shamrock; in upper leaf (or circle) is sunburst of ancient flag of Ireland;
in lower l. leaf is a ruined abbey and round tower; in lower r. leaf is
miniature of a Celtic cross; superimposed on center is spread-winged
American eagle resting talons on an Irish harp, below is a reclining Irish
wolfhound--all within large decorated circle; outside, below circle,
supporting stem of shamrock and base of harp, is the "red hand" of the arms
of Ulster; hand separates AON (one) and Croin. (crown); legend
around, in Celtic, Muintir Na H'eirann in Ameri'cea (the people of
Ireland in America); beaded border.
HK-390 Silver, on edge T. L. Elder. 38mm.
Only 75-200 struck. DeLorey 78.
HK-391 Bronze, no edge lettering. Only 1-8
struck.
DeLorey 78.
HK-392 Aluminum, no edge lettering. Only 225
struck.
DeLorey 78.
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