Numismatic

1951 Washington-Carver Half Dollar BU

---

In 1951, the United States Mint released a distinctive commemorative silver half dollar celebrating two of the nation's most prominent African American educators and leaders. The obverse of the coin, designed by artist Isaac Scott Hathaway, features the conjoined profile portraits of Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver. Surrounding these dual portraits are inscriptions emphasizing liberty, justice, and opportunity for all citizens. The reverse of this mid-century coin displays a simplified map of the continental United States. Struck in 90 percent silver, each of these half dollars contains 0.3617 troy ounces of precious metal. Preserved in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, this piece from the Philadelphia Mint offers a fascinating look at how mid-twentieth-century coinage honored American progress and unity.