1936 Wisconsin Territorial Centennial Commemorative Half Dollar

About This Coin

The 1936 Wisconsin Territorial Centennial Commemorative Half Dollar is a United States commemorative half dollar. Issued in 1936 to commemorate the centennial of Wisconsin's establishment as a territory in 1836, twelve years before achieving statehood. The territory's early economy was driven by lead mining in the southwestern corner, which attracted miners who 'burrowed' into hillsides — earning Wisconsinites the nickname 'Badgers.' The obverse features a badger standing on a log, representing the 'Badger State,' with a pickaxe and pile of lead ore symbolizing Wisconsin's mining heritage, while the reverse displays the territorial coat of arms of Wisconsin featuring an arm holding a pickaxe above a pile of lead ore, with the territorial motto CIVILIZE AND IMPROVE. Designed by David Parson. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30.6 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. The net mintage of Wisconsin Territorial Centennial half dollars dated 1936 was 25,015.