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The US Commemorative California Half Dollar, minted in 1925 at the San Francisco Mint and graded XF, holds a special place in American numismatic history. With its captivating design and limited mintage, this coin commemorates the centennial anniversary of California's admission to the Union as the 31st state.
In 1925, the United States was in the midst of a commemorative coin craze, with various issues celebrating important historical events and anniversaries. The California Half Dollar was authorized by Congress to mark the 100th anniversary of California's statehood, which occurred on September 9, 1850.
The obverse of the California Half Dollar features a left-facing portrait of a "California" miner, representative of the state's Gold Rush era. The miner is depicted wearing a broad-brimmed hat and holding a pickaxe, with "LIBERTY" inscribed above. The design is surrounded by the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "IN GOD WE TRUST."
On the reverse side, a grizzly bear, California's state animal, is shown standing on a mountainous terrain. In the background, a rising sun symbolizes the state's promise and potential. The words "CALIFORNIA" and "EUREKA" are inscribed above the bear, with the date "1925" below. The design is encircled by the legends "THE GOLDEN STATE" and "HALF DOLLAR."
The California Half Dollar was struck at the San Francisco Mint, indicated by the "S" mintmark located above the date on the reverse side of the coin. The San Francisco Mint was established in 1854 to meet the demand for coinage resulting from the California Gold Rush.
With a total mintage of 150,000 coins, the California Half Dollar is relatively scarce compared to other commemorative issues of the era. The limited mintage adds to the coin's desirability among collectors, as it represents a tangible piece of California's history and the broader American narrative.
Graded XF, this California Half Dollar exhibits extremely fine condition, with clear details and minimal wear. While some signs of circulation may be present, such as light friction or contact marks, the overall appearance of the coin is well-preserved, allowing the design elements to shine.
Collectors value coins in XF condition for their balance of detail and affordability. Coins in this grade offer a compelling combination of visual appeal and historical significance, making them popular choices for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the hobby.
As with all commemorative coins, the California Half Dollar holds a special place in the hearts of collectors due to its historical significance and unique design. The coin serves as a tangible reminder of California's storied past and its enduring contributions to the American story.
Whether as part of a specialized commemorative collection or as a standalone piece of Americana, the California Half Dollar 1925S XF represents a cherished addition to any numismatic portfolio. Its beauty, rarity, and historical significance ensure its lasting appeal for generations to come.