1926 Sesquicentennial Half dollar MS Values

Greysheet & Red Book® Price Guide
Melt: $26.36 (0.3617 oz Silver)

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1926 Sesquicentennial Half dollar MS Values

Details

Among the handful of pre-1930 commemorative half dollars is the 1926 United States Sesquicentennial, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This coin was struck in large numbers of over 1 million pieces and sold for $1 apiece, but most were melted. The 1926 Sesqui was designed by John Frederick Lewis and on its obverse features a jugate obverse portrait of first United States President George Washington and contemporary Commander-in-Chief Calvin Coolidge; the reverse showcases the Liberty Bell.

Like many of the earlier commemoratives, the 1926 Sesquicentennial half dollar was not widely saved in the higher grades, and many entered circulation. Most 1926 Sesquis are encountered in grades of MS62-64, with few grading MS65 or MS66. Any pieces grading higher are extremely rare. Be careful when buying 1926 Sesquis sight-unseen, as many pieces exhibit unsightly yellow toning.

down This coin is made of 90% silver; 10% copper and has a current melt value of $26.36

Basic Information

GSID:

10365

Coin Date:

1926

Denomination:

50c / Half dollar

Designation:

MS

Mint & Coinage Details

Mint Location:

Philadelphia

Mintage:

141,120

Coinage Type:

Classic Commemorative

Coinage Years:

1892-1954

Composition:

90% silver; 10% copper

Varieties and Classification

Variety:

Sesquicentennial

Physical Characteristics

Fineness:

0.9

Weight:

12.5 gr

Weight:

0.475 oz

Precious Metal Weight:

0.3617 oz

Strike Type:

Business

Diameter:

30.6 mm

Coin Shape:

Round

Design Details

Designer:

John R. Sinnock

Obverse Designer:

John R. Sinnock

Reverse Designer:

John R. Sinnock

Feedback:

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