Whitman Expo
1949-PDS Booker T. Washington Half dollar MS Values
Details
The 1949 Booker T. Washington half dollar marks the fourth year of this commemorative type, designed by acclaimed African American artist Isaac Scott Hathaway. This coin marks an interesting numismatic milestone, not only as the first U.S. coin designed by an African American, but also given its issuance during -- period when the American civil rights efforts were really gaining steam -- and gathering across the American community.
BTW half dollars were minted at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints in 1949, but all of these pieces are common uncirculated grades. However, examples grading MS67 or better are quite scarce, particularly due to the flat surfaces across the coin that attract highly evident surface marks.
This coin is made of 90% silver; 10% copper and has a current melt value of $26.36
Obverse: The obverse bears the portrait of the honored figure framed by the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and BOOKER T. WASHINGTON. To the left of the portrait is the date and words HALF DOLLAR. To the right of the portrait is the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM.
Reverse: The reverse bears BTW's memorial building centered at the top. Many words appear on the reverse including: BOOKER T. WASHINGTON BIRTHPLACE MEMORIAL * LIBERTY, around the periphery. FROM SLAVE CABIN TO HALL OF FAME appears below the memorial. IN GOD WE TRUST * FRANKLIN COUNTY, VA appear directly below flanking the likeness of the slave cabin.
Varieties and Classification
Variety:
Booker T. Washington
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:
Isaac Scott Hathaway
Obverse Designer:
Isaac Scott Hathaway
Reverse Designer:
Isaac Scott Hathaway
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