-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 51483
Checkout
The Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Oregon Trail 1936-S MS66 NGC is a numismatic treasure that celebrates the pioneers and the historic Oregon Trail. Issued in 1936, this coin commemorates the Oregon Trail's centennial and serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and westward expansion in the United States. With a weight of approximately 12.5 grams, this silver half dollar not only holds historical significance but also represents a tangible piece of American history.
The history of the Oregon Trail Commemorative Half Dollar can be traced back to the mid-1930s when preparations were made to celebrate the centennial of the Oregon Trail's establishment. To mark this occasion, the United States Mint was authorized to produce a commemorative coin, and the design and minting process commenced.
The coin's design is a poignant reflection of the Oregon Trail's historical importance. The obverse of the coin features a pioneer family, symbolizing the families who undertook the arduous journey along the Oregon Trail in search of a better life in the American West. The reverse of the coin depicts an ox-drawn covered wagon, an essential mode of transportation for the pioneers. These iconic design elements were created by American sculptor James Earle Fraser, renowned for his contributions to American coinage, including the famous Buffalo Nickel.
The Oregon Trail Commemorative Half Dollar was minted at various United States Mint facilities, including Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D mintmark), and San Francisco (S mintmark). The "S" mintmark on the 1936-S coin indicates that it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, resulting in a purity level of .900. The mintage of the 1936-S Oregon Trail Half Dollar was relatively limited, with a total of 17,696 coins struck. This limited mintage adds to the coin's historical significance and collectibility. The coins were sold to the public at a premium above their face value, and the proceeds were used to fund the construction of monuments and markers along the Oregon Trail, preserving its historical heritage.
The weight of the 1936-S Oregon Trail Half Dollar is approximately 12.5 grams, equivalent to half a troy ounce. The troy ounce is the standard unit of measurement for precious metals, including silver, and is used globally for its consistency and accuracy. The coin's weight is consistent with other US half dollars of the era, adding to its historical context.
The 1936-S Oregon Trail Half Dollar is certified as MS66 (Mint State 66) by the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). This high-grade designation signifies that the coin is in uncirculated condition and retains nearly all of its original mint luster. In MS66 condition, the coin may exhibit minimal contact marks or abrasions 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 1936-S MS66 NGC is a numismatic masterpiece that commemorates an important chapter in American history—the westward expansion along the Oregon Trail. Its historical significance, iconic design, limited mintage, standardized weight, high MS66 condition, and certification by NGC 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 pioneering spirit of the United States, this coin encapsulates a remarkable era in the nation's past.