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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 Gellert, 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 April 23, 1014 where he was slain.
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.
Obverse: 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.
Reverse: 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; super-imposed 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. Size 24.
HK-391 - Bronze, no edge lettering.
HK-392 - Aluminum, no edge lettering.
 
Image provided by John Dean
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