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The 1950-S Booker T. Washington Commemorative Half Dollar, certified by NGC with an MS66 grade, is an iconic piece of American numismatic history. This coin is part of a series minted from 1946 to 1951, designed to commemorate the legacy of Booker T. Washington, a prominent African American educator, author, and advisor. These coins were the first U.S. commemorative issues to honor an African American, reflecting a significant acknowledgment of Washington's contributions to American society, particularly in the realms of education and racial equality.
The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Booker T. Washington, with the inscriptions "BOOKER T. WASHINGTON" and "HALF DOLLAR" encircling him. The depiction aims to capture Washington's dignified and resolute demeanor, honoring his dedication to uplifting African Americans through education. The reverse side displays the Hall of Fame for Great Americans at New York University, where Washington was honored posthumously. The reverse also bears the inspirational motto "FROM SLAVE CABIN TO HALL OF FAME," encapsulating Washington's remarkable life journey from slavery to being a celebrated national figure.
This specific coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint, indicated by the 'S' mintmark. It is distinguished by its MS66 grade from NGC, which signifies that the coin is in near perfect condition, exhibiting minimal marks and maintaining a strong original luster. Coins in this condition are particularly desirable to collectors due to their superior aesthetic appeal and preservation, highlighting the fine details of the design, such as the crispness of Washington's facial features and the intricate lines of the NYU Hall of Fame.
The packaging for this certified coin includes a secure, tamper-proof slab by NGC, which not only protects the coin from physical and environmental damage but also clearly displays the coin’s grade and unique attributes. This professional encapsulation ensures that the coin’s condition is preserved, making it a reliable and attractive piece for long-term collection. The slab also includes NGC's certification number and a barcode, which can be used to verify the coin's details and authenticity directly through NGC’s online database.
The mintage of the Booker T. Washington series was relatively extensive to support various memorial and educational projects linked to Washington's legacy. However, coins from the San Francisco Mint like the 1950-S often carry a particular appeal due to their historical production context and sometimes lower relative mintages. As such, a coin in MS66 condition is a rare and valuable find, combining historical significance with a high numismatic grade, making it highly sought after among serious collectors and investors in commemorative coins.
In summary, the 1950-S Booker T. Washington Commemorative Half Dollar in MS66 condition represents a significant cultural and historical artifact. It not only reflects the advanced minting capabilities of its time but also commemorates a pivotal figure in American history. Collecting such a coin is an investment in a tangible piece of America's complex narrative on race, education, and perseverance, preserved at the highest standards of numismatic quality.