Numismatic

1915-S Panama-Pacific Half Dollar MS-64 PCGS

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Struck in San Francisco, the 1915-S Panama-Pacific half dollar represents a landmark moment in United States coinage. This issue, composed of 90 percent silver with 0.3617 troy ounces of precious metal, is particularly notable for being the very first commemorative coin to display the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST." The obverse of the coin, created by Charles Barber, presents a detailed allegorical scene. It depicts Columbia scattering blossoms from a cornucopia, which is supported by a young child. Behind this central pair, a stylized sun rises over the horizon. The San Francisco "S" mint mark is positioned just to the left of the 1915 date on this side. On the reverse, designed by George T. Morgan, an eagle stands with its wings unfurled, perched atop a Union shield. The central eagle is flanked by an oak branch on its left and an olive branch on its right, surrounded by a formal legend along the outer rim. This issue was part of a larger, diverse commemorative program produced in two different metals across four distinct denominations, making this graded Mint State 64 (MS-64) specimen a fascinating study in early twentieth-century American engraving.