Numismatic

1935 Boone Half Dollar Commem BU

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This 1935 commemorative silver half dollar celebrates Daniel Boone, one of the earliest folk heroes of the United States. Struck in Philadelphia with a purity of 90 percent silver, this coin survives in brilliant uncirculated condition, offering a remarkably clear window into early American frontier lore. The total mintage for this specific year and mint was limited to just 10,010 pieces, making it a scarce artifact of mid-century commemorative coinage. The obverse of the coin displays an idealized portrait of Daniel Boone looking toward the left. The reverse captures a dramatic historical encounter, depicting full-length figures of Boone and Chief Blackfish of the Chillicothe tribe facing each other. This illustration references the peace agreement made between the two men, set against a background that features the Boonesboro blockhouse on the left side and a rising sun on the right. Designed by Augustus Lukeman, the coin honors a lifetime of exploration and frontier settlement. Boone explored Florida in 1763, traveled through Kentucky from 1769 to 1771, and made an initial attempt to start a colony in 1773. He eventually established the settlement of Boonesboro in 1775, a pivotal moment in westward expansion that is permanently memorialized on this 50 cent piece.