Panama-Pacific Exposition

1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition. MS-66+ (PCGS).

Here is a highly lustrous premium Gem with virtually untouched surfaces. Splashes of iridescent powder blue and reddish-rose iridescence enhance golden-tinged surfaces and provide an exceptionally vivid appearance for a commemorative half dollar of this design type. Nicely defined for the issue and sure to please. To celebrate San Francisco's recovery from a massive earthquake and devastating fires, along with the opening of the Panama Canal, the Panama-Pacific International Exposition was held in 1915 to great fanfare. As part of the celebrations, the Mint was authorized by the Act of June 16, 1915, to issue a series of commemorative coins from the half dollar all the way up to two varieties of $50 gold pieces. For the half dollar, Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber designed the obverse while his assistant George T. Morgan was tasked with creating the reverse. Up to 200,000 half dollars were authorized to be produced at the San Francisco Mint, but only 60,030 were actually coined, with 30 reserved for the annual assay. Ultimately, only 27,134 were sold at $1 apiece or six for $5, and the balance of 32,866 pieces was melted. Most examples are Mint State, though a few did see brief time in circulation. Gem specimens are scarce and are eagerly sought, especially since the toning and surfaces can be of somewhat variable quality. This premium MS-66+ is surely among the more desirable survivors.

PCGS# 9357. NGC ID: BYHP.

Estimate: 2750