Numismatic

1936 Arkansas Centennial Half Dollar Commem BU

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In 1936, the Philadelphia Mint produced a silver half dollar to mark one hundred years since Arkansas joined the Union. This commemorative coin, struck in 0.900 fine silver with a total silver weight of 0.3617 troy ounces, features a limited original mintage of just 9,660 pieces. It remains an intriguing specimen for those who appreciate the artistry of early twentieth-century American commemorative coinage. The obverse presents a striking visual contrast with two profiles side by side. It depicts an Indigenous chief representing the year 1836 alongside a young American woman representing 1936. This dual-portrait concept was designed by Edward Everett Burr, with the physical models for the coin prepared by Emily Bates. The design captures a century of transition in a single, elegant composition. On the reverse, a powerful eagle stands positioned in front of the Arkansas state flag. The inscriptions on this side include the issuing country, United States of America, along with the half dollar face value. This brilliant uncirculated coin offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic style and commemorative themes of the 1930s.