Numismatic

1923-S Monroe Doctrine Half (Low Grade/Cleaned)

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This silver half dollar, struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1923, offers a compelling visual narrative from the era of early United States commemorative coinage. Composed of 90% silver, containing 0.3617 troy ounces of precious metal, the coin was produced with a total mintage of 274,077 pieces. This particular specimen shows signs of heavy circulation and past cleaning, reflecting its long journey through hands and history. The obverse of the coin displays the profiles of James Monroe and John Quincy Adams side by side, honoring the statesmen associated with the famous foreign policy doctrine. Legible inscriptions on this face include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, HALF DOLLAR, and the names MONROE and ADAMS, alongside the trust motto and the 1923 date. On the reverse, an inventive artistic concept depicts the Western Hemisphere. The continents of North and South America are cleverly formed by the shapes of two female figures. The design commemorates the centennial of the doctrine, spanning the years 1823 to 1923, and includes references to Los Angeles, where the celebratory exposition was held.