Numismatic

1936 Gettysburg Half Commem BU

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In 1936, the United States Mint released a silver half dollar to mark the anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, the pivotal American Civil War conflict fought from July 1 to July 3, 1863. This commemorative coin, struck in 0.900 fine silver with a total silver weight of 0.3617 troy ounces, features a limited mintage of just 26,928 pieces. Sculpted by Frank Vittor, the coin stands as a powerful visual monument to reconciliation. The obverse of the coin displays the conjoined busts of a Union soldier and a Confederate soldier, side by side, symbolizing the shared humanity of those who fought. The design captures the essence of the historical division and subsequent healing of the nation, accompanied by the inscription "BLUE AND GRAY" to represent the opposing forces. On the reverse, the theme of unity continues with two distinct shields representing the Union and the Confederacy. A fasces, a traditional symbol of authority and strength through unity, divides the two shields. This brilliant uncirculated coin serves as a fascinating artifact of American history, capturing the memory of a monumental struggle through detailed numismatic art.