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The 1921 Alabama Centennial Half Dollar, minted in honor of Alabama's 100th anniversary of statehood, stands as a notable piece in the realm of U.S. commemorative coins. This specific issue was created to mark a century since Alabama was admitted as the 22nd state in the Union in 1821. The coin's issuance reflects a broader trend in early 20th-century America where significant historical milestones were commemorated through numismatics, adding both cultural and monetary value to these special issues.
The design of the Alabama Half Dollar features an interesting and unique dual-portraiture on the obverse, showcasing William Wyatt Bibb, the first governor of Alabama, and Thomas E. Kilby, the governor at the time of the coin's release. This pairing was intended to symbolize the state’s journey from its establishment to its centennial celebration. The reverse of the coin features an eagle, which is a common emblem of American strength and freedom, positioned above a shield that carries the stars and stripes, encapsulating patriotic sentiments.
This coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, a detail indicated by the absence of a mint mark. The total mintage was relatively low, with only 6,000 pieces produced, making it a rare and valuable item for collectors. The limited mintage was not only a tactic to preserve the coin's uniqueness but also served as a fundraising tool to support state historical and centennial events, which was a common use of revenue generated from commemorative coin sales during that era.
The condition of this specific Alabama Half Dollar is graded as About Uncirculated (AU). This high grade implies that the coin has minimal wear and retains most of its original mint luster, though there may be slight traces of wear on the highest points of the design. Coins in this condition are highly prized in the numismatic community for their beauty and preservation of detail, making them especially attractive to both collectors and investors.
An interesting historical fact about Alabama relevant to this coin is its significant role during the Civil War. Known for its agricultural economy, Alabama was pivotal as a supplier of soldiers and resources to the Confederate cause. The state's rich history, marked by such critical events, adds depth to the cultural heritage reflected in commemorative coins like the Alabama Half Dollar.
In conclusion, the 1921 Alabama Half Dollar is more than just a piece of currency; it is a collector's item that embodies a significant historical narrative and celebrates the state's centennial in a form that can be held and admired. Its design, historical significance, and condition make it a distinguished specimen in the world of numismatic collections, reflecting both the artistic and historical heritage of the United States.