Numismatic

1946 Iowa Centennial Half Dollar MS-65 PCGS

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In 1946, the United States Mint commemorated a century of Iowa statehood with a special silver half dollar. This commemorative issue, struck in 90 percent silver with a precious metal content of 0.3617 troy ounces, boasts a total mintage of 100,057 pieces. When first released, these coins were offered to the citizens of Iowa before being made available to the wider public, making them a deeply personal piece of local heritage. The obverse of the coin showcases the first stone capitol building located in Iowa City, a structure that served as the early seat of the state government. On the reverse, the design features the official Iowa State Seal. This certified Mint State 65 specimen beautifully preserves the intricate details of both faces, capturing the artistic vision of designer Adam Pietz. Legible inscriptions on this historic issue include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and HALF DOLLAR, alongside the classic mottos IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY. The dual dates of 1846 and 1946 highlight the one hundred year journey from territory to statehood, while the words OLD STONE CAPITOL and IOWA CITY anchor the design to its physical inspiration.