-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 18947
The Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Set Rhode Island 1936 MS66 PCGS, which consists of three pieces, is a highly regarded set in the world of numismatics. This commemorative series was issued to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the founding of Rhode Island, one of the original Thirteen Colonies of the United States. The coins were struck as part of the broader series of commemorative coins authorized by the U.S. government to mark important historical events. In 1936, this half dollar was among a number of commemorative coins produced to honor the nation’s historical milestones, a trend that became especially popular during the 1930s. The Rhode Island 1936 commemorative coin not only serves as a tribute to the founding of the state but also as a reflection of the economic and cultural climate of the time.
The history of the Rhode Island 1936 commemorative half dollar coin is deeply tied to the celebration of the state’s 300th anniversary of its founding by Roger Williams. Williams, a Puritan minister, is best known for establishing Providence in 1636 as a haven for religious freedom. He is often celebrated for his advocacy for the separation of church and state, a principle that remains a cornerstone of American democracy. The Rhode Island Half Dollar was authorized by Congress in 1934 and was minted in 1936. The coin’s issuance was part of a larger effort to honor the contributions of various American states and their founding figures. The coin was designed to commemorate the historical significance of Rhode Island’s founding and its commitment to religious freedom, which was seen as a foundational principle of American democracy. As part of the broader series of commemorative coins produced during the 1930s, the Rhode Island Half Dollar is highly sought after by collectors, both for its historical relevance and its artistic qualities.
The design of the 1936 Rhode Island Half Dollar was created by artist John R. Sinnock, who is well known for his work on several other U.S. coins, including the design of the Roosevelt dime. The obverse of the coin features a depiction of the founder of Rhode Island, Roger Williams. The image captures Williams in profile, reflecting the style of classical coin portraits that are commonly used to honor historical figures. Williams is shown with a full beard and wearing a traditional 17th-century collar, evoking the time period of his life and work. Above the portrait is the inscription “ROGER WILLIAMS,” identifying the man being honored, and “RHODE ISLAND” is inscribed along the coin’s rim, emphasizing the state being commemorated. The reverse of the coin features an image of the state of Rhode Island’s seal, which includes a large anchor. The anchor symbolizes hope, a theme that ties into the state’s early history as a refuge for those seeking religious and political freedom. The reverse also includes the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “HALF DOLLAR,” clearly marking the coin as a legitimate currency of the United States. The design of the coin is elegant and deeply symbolic, representing the ideals of liberty and the pursuit of freedom that shaped the history of Rhode Island and the United States as a whole.
The Rhode Island 1936 commemorative half dollar was minted by the Philadelphia Mint, which was the primary minting facility for commemorative coins at the time. The U.S. Mint used the same level of craftsmanship for this commemorative series as it did for all its coins, ensuring that each coin struck was of high quality and adhered to strict standards. The 1936 Rhode Island Half Dollar was produced in both proof and uncirculated versions, with the uncirculated versions being more common. The proof coins were specially struck using a different method, resulting in a higher-quality finish with a mirror-like surface and frosted details. The uncirculated coins, while not exhibiting the same polished finish as proofs, still carried a high level of detail and were struck with precision, ensuring their long-lasting appeal to collectors. The coins were initially sold to the public at face value, though their collectibility and significance have driven their market value well beyond their original price.
The mintage of the 1936 Rhode Island Half Dollar was limited, with just 100,000 pieces produced, a relatively low number for a U.S. coin. The limited mintage of the coin, combined with its historical significance, has made it a highly desirable item among collectors. As with many other commemorative coins, the Rhode Island Half Dollar was produced in a relatively short run, ensuring its rarity. The lower mintage number compared to other coins of the era means that high-grade examples of the coin, especially in grades like MS66, are particularly sought after. Commemorative coins are often valued not just for their historical or cultural relevance but also for their rarity, and this coin is no exception. Given the limited production and the historical importance of the coin, it is a key piece in the collection of U.S. commemorative coin enthusiasts.
The condition of the 1936 Rhode Island Half Dollar is crucial in determining its value. Coins that have been well-preserved, without significant wear or damage, tend to command higher prices. The MS66 grade, as represented by the Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Set Rhode Island 1936, signifies that the coins are in excellent condition, with only minor imperfections visible upon close inspection. The MS66 grade is considered very high for a coin that is over 80 years old and reflects the careful handling and storage of the coin over its lifetime. Coins in this grade exhibit full luster, sharp details, and minimal signs of wear. These coins would have been stored carefully, ensuring that they did not suffer from the typical abrasions or discoloration that often affect circulated coins. As a result, coins in MS66 condition are among the most desirable in the marketplace and command premium prices.
The Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Set Rhode Island 1936 MS66 PCGS, consisting of three pieces, provides a unique and valuable opportunity for collectors. The set’s certification by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) ensures that each coin is graded accurately and professionally, offering collectors the confidence that they are acquiring high-quality examples of the coin. The PCGS certification also guarantees the authenticity of the coins, which is critical for high-value collectibles. As a set, the three pieces offer a chance to acquire an important historical coin in pristine condition, further enhancing its appeal to collectors looking to add an exceptional example to their collection.
In conclusion, the Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Set Rhode Island 1936 MS66 PCGS is a valuable and historically significant set of coins that commemorates the 300th anniversary of the founding of Rhode Island. With a design that honors Roger Williams and the ideals of the state, and a limited mintage that ensures its rarity, this coin is highly sought after by collectors. The MS66 grade reflects the excellent condition of the coins, ensuring their desirability and premium value in the numismatic market. For both collectors and investors, the Rhode Island 1936 commemorative half dollar coins offer an exceptional opportunity to acquire a piece of U.S. history in outstanding condition.