Kalakaua Coin Souvenirs

( Article orginally published August 1963 )

Hawaiian coins, minted only in 1883 during the reign of King Kalakaua, were legal tender only until January 1, 1904. (See Spinning Wheel, November 1957.) Following annexation of Hawaii to the United States, an act of Congress provided for redemption of Hawaiian coins in United States silver coins at par value, and recoinage of the redeemed silver into United States silver coins. Only a small number showed up for redemption. Hundreds, perhaps thousands, were made into souvenirs which are now avidly sought by collectors.

A new exhibit at Bernice P. Bishop Museum, in Honolulu, features some of these souvenirs. While searching in the collections at the Museum for material for this exhibit, the author made a significant "find" of Hawaiian souvenir spoons. In the dark recesses of a large iron safe she found nine spoons, a belt buckle, and napkin ring made from Hawaiian coins. The existence of these pieces had not been known to the Museum staff previously.

Shown here are selected pieces from the exhibit, including the nine souvenir spoons, none of which bear any makers' marks.