Mel Wacks Counterstamp Question - Freedom Dollar

Mizzou

The spontaneous issue celebrated the surprise release of the 52 U.S. hostages by Iran. Sixty-six Americans had been taken captive when Iranian militants seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran on November 4, 1979, including three who were at the Iranian Foreign Ministry. Six Americans escaped, 13 were released on November 19 and 20, 1979, and one was released on July 11, 1980. At least 125 pieces (of the 444 authorized) Proof 1971 Eisenhower Silver Dollars were counterstamped “FREEDOM FOR THE 52 AMERICAN HOSTAGES JANUARY 20, 1981” along with a ribbon around an oak tree and “© WACKS.” During the Iran hostage crisis, the yellow ribbon was used as a symbol of support for the hostages held at the U.S. embassy in Tehran. This symbolism began in December 1979, when Penelope Laingen, wife of the most senior foreign service officer being held hostage, tied a yellow ribbon around a tree on the lawn of her Maryland home, likely inspired by the hit song "Tie a Yellow Ribbon 'Round the Ole Oak Tree."

Does this mean that only 125 had the wording “FREEDOM FOR THE 52 AMERICAN HOSTAGES JANUARY 20, 1981” and the remaining pieces did not?
Or there were only 125 pieces counter stamped all together?

JBK

Many of Mel's issues were struck in smaller quantities than what was originally "authorized" (by him).

I can't see any of these being counterstamped without that text, so I assume your information means that of the 444 authorized/intended only 125 were actually struck.

Were you the buyer of the one that closed on ebay last night? I think it brought around $150.

Namvet69

Looks like this Freedom Dollar was offered in a clear plastic holder with a yellow embossed insert that held the coin. It says "Limited Edition To 444 Pieces" @ Mel Wacks. Anyone have a link to a Mel Wacks site that has compiled all his work. Peace Roy

Mizzou

Thanks for your response, yes, the auction actually ended about 11:00 this morning (East Coast). It was about $155 with the shipping. The Sandra Day O'Connor dollar also had very few pieces but, if this was only 125 pieces total, it would be the lowest count of any of his Eisenhower counterstrikes.

ricko

While I do not collect counterstamps, that is one that I might pick up at a show.... Lived through that and recall the details quite well. Cheers, RickO

Mizzou

Very please with my purchase from Hallenbeck Coin Gallery in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Coin actually looks better in hand than it does in the picture.

Jimnight

Nice looking counterstamp.