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The Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Oregon Trail 1928 MS65 PCGS is a remarkable numismatic treasure that pays tribute to the pioneers and westward expansion of the United States. Issued in 1928, this coin commemorates the Oregon Trail, a historic route that played a vital role in shaping the nation. With a weight of approximately 12.5 grams, this silver half dollar is not only a tangible piece of American history but also a symbol of the enduring spirit of exploration and adventure.
The history of the Oregon Trail Commemorative Half Dollar dates back to the mid-1920s when the Oregon Trail Memorial Association sought to create a coin to honor the trail's centennial. With the support of Senator Frederick Steiwer of Oregon, the Oregon Trail Memorial Act was passed in 1926, authorizing the production of a commemorative coin. The United States Mint was entrusted with the design and minting of the coin.
The design of the Oregon Trail Half Dollar is a poignant representation of the trail's significance in American history. The obverse of the coin features a covered wagon pulled by oxen, symbolizing the challenging journey taken by pioneers along the Oregon Trail. The reverse of the coin showcases an eagle in flight, representing freedom and the pioneering spirit of the American people. The design was created by James Earle Fraser, a renowned American sculptor known for his iconic Buffalo Nickel design.
The Oregon Trail Half Dollar was minted at various US Mint facilities, including Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D mintmark), and San Francisco (S mintmark). The "P" mintmark on the 1928 coin indicates that it was minted in Philadelphia. The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, resulting in a purity level of .900. The mintage of the 1928 Oregon Trail Half Dollar was relatively low, with a total of 58,000 coins struck. This limited mintage adds to the coin's historical significance and collectibility. The coins were primarily sold to the public at a premium above their face value, with the proceeds going toward the construction of monuments along the Oregon Trail and supporting the Oregon Trail Memorial Association's work.
The weight of the 1928 Oregon Trail Half Dollar is approximately 12.5 grams, which is equivalent to half a troy ounce. The troy ounce is the standard unit of measurement for precious metals, including silver. The coin's weight is consistent with other US half dollars of the era, and it adds to the historical context and significance of the coin.
The 1928 Oregon Trail Half Dollar is certified as MS65 (Mint State 65) by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). This high-grade designation signifies that the coin is in uncirculated condition and retains nearly all of its original mint luster. In MS65 condition, the coin may exhibit a few minor contact marks or hairlines but is overall in exceptional condition. The preservation of the coin's original luster and detail is a testament to its careful handling and storage over the years.
The Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Oregon Trail 1928 MS65 PCGS is a numismatic masterpiece that commemorates a significant chapter in American history—the westward expansion along the Oregon Trail. Its historical significance, iconic design, limited mintage, standardized weight, high MS65 condition, and certification by PCGS make it a highly sought-after and valuable addition to any coin collection with an appreciation for American commemoratives. Whether acquired for its historical importance or as a symbol of the adventurous spirit of the United States, this coin encapsulates a remarkable era in the nation's past.