Numismatic

1936 Wisconsin Half MS-65 PCGS

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In 1936, the United States Mint marked a century of Wisconsin's territorial status with a distinctive silver half dollar. Struck in 90% silver with a total precious metal weight of 0.3617 troy ounces, this coin is a fascinating specimen of early twentieth-century American commemorative design. This particular example is graded in Mint State 65 (MS-65), preserving the sharp details of its original production in Philadelphia. The obverse of the coin presents a bold profile of a badger, the state animal, facing left as it rests upon a log. This central figure is surrounded by inscriptions celebrating the Wisconsin Territorial Centennial. On the reverse, the design showcases the historic territorial seal of Wisconsin. A disembodied arm is depicted holding a pickaxe, positioned directly over a heap of raw lead ore, symbolizing the early mining heritage of the region. The artistry of both sides was created by sculptor Benjamin Hawkins, resulting in a highly original piece of numismatic art that captures a specific moment in midwestern history.