1925 Fort Vancouver Half Dollar MS-64 PCGS

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In 1925, the United States Mint struck a special silver half dollar to mark the centennial of Fort Vancouver, an essential outpost established between 1824 and 1825. This coin recalls a unique era of diplomacy and commerce, representing a region that the United States and Great Britain agreed to occupy jointly starting in 1818. Fort Vancouver served as a crucial hub for the fur trade, replacing Fort George, which was formerly known as Astoria, and acting as the primary seat of influence for the British Hudson's Bay Company in the Pacific Northwest. Designed by Laura Gardin Fraser, the coin features a dignified bust of John McLoughlin on the obverse. The inscriptions surrounding his portrait include the dual dates of 1825 and 1925, alongside the national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" and the denomination "HALF DOLLAR". This particular specimen is certified in Mint State 64 (MS-64), preserving the crisp details of the original engraving. The reverse of the coin depicts a pioneer settler standing with a musket, set against the scenic background of the fort and the surrounding landscape. The inscriptions "FORT VANCOUVER CENTENNIAL" and "FOUNDED 1825" frame this detailed scene. Struck from 0.900 fine silver with a total silver content of 0.3617 troy ounces, this issue is notably scarce, with a total mintage of just 14,994 pieces.