1937 Arkansas Centennial Commemorative Half Dollar

About This Coin

The 1937 Arkansas Centennial Commemorative Half Dollar is a United States commemorative half dollar. Authorized in 1935 to celebrate the centennial of Arkansas's admission to the Union in 1836. The series was produced from 1935 through 1939 at multiple mints. The coin was controversial for its extended production, which critics said was primarily for the benefit of coin dealers. The obverse features conjoined busts of an Indian chief and a Liberty-style female figure representing Arkansas's transition from territory to statehood, while the reverse displays an eagle with outstretched wings superimposed on a diamond shape representing Arkansas, the 'Diamond State,' flanked by the dates 1836 and 1936. Designed by Edward Everett Burr & Emily Bates. Mintages declined to approximately 5,500 per mint. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30.6 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. The extended production run contributed to Congress eventually ending the classic commemorative program.