Numismatic

1936 Cincinnati Commemorative Half BU

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In 1936, the United States Mint released a commemorative half dollar honoring Cincinnati as a historical center of music. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a incredibly low mintage of just 5,005 pieces, this silver coin is a fascinating specimen from the mid-century era of American commemorative coinage. It contains 0.3617 troy ounces of 90 percent pure silver, preserved in brilliant uncirculated condition. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Stephen Foster, who is noted on the coin as America's Troubadour. The design was created by Constance Ortmayer and includes the subject's name directly below the bust, flanked by the commemorative dates 1826 and 1936. The traditional national mottos are also integrated into the obverse field. On the reverse, Ortmayer created an artistic representation of the Goddess of Music. The design depicts a kneeling female figure holding a lyre, symbolizing the deep musical heritage of the city. The inscriptions on this side include the issuing country, United States of America, along with the denomination of half dollar. This piece stands as a remarkable artistic tribute to the nation's early musical history.