Numismatic

1918 Lincoln Illinois Centennial Half AU

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In 1918, the United States marked a century of statehood for Illinois with a special commemorative silver half dollar. This coin, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, contains 0.3617 troy ounces of silver in a 90 percent pure alloy. It represents a fascinating moment in American numismatic design, bringing together presidential tribute and state pride on a single piece of circulating history. The obverse of the coin displays a detailed profile bust of Abraham Lincoln, the iconic president who spent his formative years in Illinois. Surrounding this portrait are the classic American inscriptions of liberty and trust, alongside the commemorative year of 1918. This side of the coin was designed by John Sinnock, who captured a solemn and dignified likeness of the nation's sixteenth president. On the reverse, the coin features the intricate State Seal of Illinois. An eagle is depicted alongside symbols of national sovereignty and state union, accompanied by the traditional motto of unity. This side of the coin also displays the denomination of half dollar. This particular specimen is preserved in Almost Uncirculated condition, offering a clear and crisp look at the fine details of both the Lincoln portrait and the complex reverse seal.