The 1926 United States Sesquicentennial Half Dollar, often called the “Sesqui,” is a special coin that was made to celebrate America’s 150th birthday. It was created after the National Sesquicentennial Commission was formed by an act passed on March 3, 1925. This act allowed the minting of commemorative coins, including this half dollar and another smaller gold coin called a quarter eagle.
Celebrating 150 Years of Independence
The United States celebrated its 150th anniversary of independence in 1926. This big event, known as the Sesquicentennial, was marked by fairs and celebrations across the country, with the main event held in Philadelphia. To help fund these celebrations, special coins were made and sold as souvenirs. The Sesqui Half Dollar was sold for $1 each, and the quarter eagle was sold for $4. However, these coins didn’t sell as well as expected, with only a small portion of them being bought by the public.
Design and Minting
The 1926 Sesquicentennial Half Dollar was made at the Philadelphia Mint during May and June of 1926. The design was originally created by the Chief Engraver, John Ray Sinnock, but it was rejected. Instead, an outside artist named John Frederick Lewis was chosen to design the coin. His design features the faces of Presidents George Washington and Calvin Coolidge. Interestingly, Coolidge was the sitting president at the time, making him the first living person to be featured on a U.S. coin.
The design on the coin is quite shallow, meaning the details can be hard to see. This makes it a bit different from other coins, which usually have more pronounced designs. The coin also features a dual date, “1776-1926,” on its reverse side, celebrating both the year of independence and the 150th anniversary.
Market Value and Collectability
The 1926 Sesquicentennial Half Dollar is a rare find, especially in high grades. Coins are graded on a scale, with MS65 and MS66 being very high grades. Collectors and investors often look for coins with these grades, as they are in excellent condition. However, the price of these coins has gone down since a peak in 2009. While they were once very expensive, they are now more affordable for everyday collectors.
Interestingly, coins in top condition, especially those with unique or attractive coloring, are still highly valued. For example, a coin graded MS66+ (meaning it’s almost perfect) with special toning can sell for tens of thousands of dollars at auctions. However, many of these coins have dull or unattractive colors, which can lower their appeal.
Conclusion
The 1926 Sesquicentennial Half Dollar is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of American history. It represents the country’s 150th birthday and is a prized item for collectors. Although its market value has fluctuated over the years, it remains a significant coin due to its unique design and historical importance. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, this coin is a fascinating addition to any collection.
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FAQ’s
What is the 1926 Sesquicentennial Half Dollar?
The 1926 Sesquicentennial Half Dollar, also known as the “Sesqui,” is a commemorative coin issued to celebrate America’s 150th anniversary of independence. It was minted in Philadelphia and features portraits of Presidents George Washington and Calvin Coolidge.
Why is the 1926 Sesquicentennial Half Dollar considered rare?
The 1926 Sesquicentennial Half Dollar is considered rare due to its limited mintage and low sales figures. Although a million coins were struck, only about 14% were sold, and finding high-grade examples, especially in MS66 or higher, is challenging.
What are the design features of the 1926 Sesquicentennial Half Dollar?
The obverse of the coin displays the busts of George Washington and Calvin Coolidge, with the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The reverse shows the Liberty Bell with the dates 1776 and 1926, along with the inscription “SESQUICENTENNIAL OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE” and the denomination “HALF DOLLAR.”
