1938 (S) Oregon Half Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$35,250 MS68 01-01-2013 Stack's Bowers

Description

The 1938 (S) Oregon Half Dollar is a commemorative half dollar struck at the San Francisco Mint. With a mintage of just 6,006, this is a scarce issue sought by specialists. Authorized in 1926 to memorialize the historic Oregon Trail migration and the pioneer spirit that opened the American West. The obverse features a Native American chief standing with an outstretched arm, with a map of the United States in the background and a sun setting over the Rocky Mountains, while the reverse displays a Conestoga wagon drawn by oxen heading westward along the Oregon Trail, with the sun rising ahead. Designed by James Earle Fraser and Laura Gardin Fraser. Produced at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco with 6,006 pieces each — among the lowest mintages in the program. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30.6 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #9350. The Oregon Trail Half Dollar is widely considered one of the most beautiful classic commemoratives, designed by husband-and-wife team James Earle and Laura Gardin Fraser. Multiple year-mint combinations create collecting variety, with some issues being quite scarce.