-
Inventory:
31 In Stock
- Product ID: 8516
The 1953-S Washington Carver Half Dollar is a distinguished piece of American commemorative coinage, issued to honor the renowned scientist and inventor George Washington Carver. This coin represents the continuation of a series that celebrated significant figures in American history, specifically recognizing Carver’s immense contributions to agriculture and his role in advancing science. George Washington Carver, celebrated for his innovations in crop rotation and his development of numerous products derived from peanuts, was a figure of great importance in the early 20th century. The 1953-S Washington Carver Half Dollar serves to perpetuate his legacy and commemorate his achievements in the realm of agricultural science.
The design of the 1953-S Washington Carver Half Dollar is both thoughtful and reflective of the artistic trends of the period. The obverse of the coin features a finely detailed portrait of George Washington Carver. This portrait captures Carver with a dignified expression, emphasizing his thoughtful and pioneering nature. The engraving is rendered with high precision, showcasing Carver’s distinctive features and the respect he commanded. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions “GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “LIBERTY,” which collectively honor his identity and contributions. The reverse side of the coin is equally significant, illustrating a peanut plant—a nod to Carver’s work with peanuts and his broader impact on agriculture. This side of the coin also includes the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “HALF DOLLAR,” which indicate the coin's country of origin and its denomination.
The 1953-S Washington Carver Half Dollar was minted at the San Francisco Mint, distinguished by the “S” mintmark found on the reverse of the coin. This mintmark signifies that the coin was produced at the San Francisco Mint, one of the key facilities responsible for minting commemorative coins during this era. The coin is made of 90% silver and 10% copper, adhering to the composition standard for U.S. half dollars of the time. The 1953-S issue had a relatively modest mintage, with approximately 55,000 coins struck. This limited mintage contributes to the coin’s rarity and appeal among collectors, making it a prized item for those interested in commemorative numismatics and American history.
In terms of condition, the 1953-S Washington Carver Half Dollar in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) status is particularly sought after. Coins in BU condition exhibit a high degree of detail and luster, reflecting the mint's commitment to producing high-quality commemorative pieces. The surfaces of a BU coin should display a brilliant, mirror-like finish with sharply defined features. Minimal to no signs of wear or toning are evident on the coin, maintaining its original mint quality. Such coins are highly prized for their pristine appearance, which preserves the intended beauty of the design and the quality of the minting process. The BU condition ensures that the coin remains a stunning example of mid-20th century American commemorative artistry and craftsmanship.
The 1953-S Washington Carver Half Dollar thus stands as a significant piece of numismatic history, honoring the legacy of George Washington Carver while representing a notable example of mid-20th century American coinage. Its design, mintage, and condition all contribute to its value and appeal, making it a cherished item among collectors and a lasting tribute to Carver’s contributions to agriculture and science. Collectors and enthusiasts prize this coin not only for its historical significance but also for its role in celebrating one of America’s most influential figures through the medium of commemorative coinage.