Numismatic

1948-S Booker T. Washington Half Dollar MS-65 PCGS

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This mid-century silver half dollar, struck in 1948, serves as a striking tribute to educator Booker T. Washington. Produced at the San Francisco Mint, the coin features the distinctive 'S' mint mark, identifying its West Coast origin. With a purity of 90 percent silver, the coin contains 0.3617 troy ounces of precious metal. Out of a remarkably small mintage of just 8,005 pieces, this particular specimen has survived in exceptional condition, graded as a superb Mint State 65 (MS-65). The obverse of the coin displays a detailed portrait of Booker T. Washington, accompanied by the inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'HALF DOLLAR'. The design also incorporates traditional national mottos, including 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' and 'IN GOD WE TRUST', alongside the word 'LIBERTY'. The reverse design features a depiction of a slave cabin, referencing his birthplace in Franklin County, Virginia, juxtaposed with a hall of fame, symbolizing his journey and achievements.