1938 Arkansas Half Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$14,950 MS67 07-31-2009 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1938 Arkansas Half Dollar is a commemorative half dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint. With a mintage of just 3,156, this is a rare and highly sought-after issue. Authorized in 1935 to celebrate the centennial of Arkansas's admission to the Union in 1836. 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. Only 3,156 pieces per mint were produced, creating scarcer issues. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30.6 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #9245. The Arkansas Centennial Half Dollar is a multi-year series with numerous date-mint combinations, making a complete set a challenging pursuit. The extended production run contributed to Congress eventually ending the classic commemorative program.