Numismatic

1893 Columbian Expo Half AU

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In 1893, the United States Mint embarked on a new creative path by issuing its very first commemorative coin. Struck in 90 percent silver, this half dollar was created specifically to help fund the World's Columbian Exposition, the grand world's fair hosted in Chicago. It represents a landmark moment in American numismatics, marking the birth of a tradition where coins celebrate major national milestones and events. The obverse of this historic coin features a detailed portrait of Christopher Columbus. This depiction was crafted by Charles Barber, who based his work on an initial concept by Olin Warner. The surrounding inscriptions clearly identify the issuing nation as the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and denote the face value as a HALF DOLLAR. On the reverse, the design transitions to maritime exploration, showcasing Columbus's flagship, the Santa Maria, positioned above two globe hemispheres. This side was engraved by George T. Morgan, who also worked from a concept by Olin Warner. The inscriptions on this side commemorate the event with the words COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION CHICAGO and the date 1893, alongside a reference to the WORLD'S fair. Containing 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver, this coin survives in Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the intricate details of this historic celebration.