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The US Commemorative Huguenot Half Dollar of 1924 AU is an important piece of American numismatic history, celebrating the 300th anniversary of the arrival of Huguenots in America. This coin is notable for its historical context, artistic design, and the details surrounding its minting and mintage. It was issued to honor the contributions of the Huguenot settlers, particularly highlighting the founding of New Netherland, which later became New York.
The Huguenots were French Protestants who faced severe persecution in Catholic France during the 16th and 17th centuries. Seeking religious freedom, many fled to various parts of the world, including the New World. The Huguenot Half Dollar commemorates the Huguenot-Walloon Tercentenary, celebrating the contributions of the Huguenot and Walloon settlers who played a significant role in the early development of American colonies. Their arrival in 1624 marked a pivotal moment in the history of religious freedom and the growth of early American society.
The obverse of the Huguenot Half Dollar features the conjoined busts of Admiral Gaspard de Coligny and William the Silent (William I, Prince of Orange). Both figures were leaders of the Protestant Reformation and defenders of the Huguenots. The inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” encircles the top of the coin, with “HUGUENOT-WALLOON TERCENTENARY” below the portraits. The inclusion of these two prominent figures underscores the significance of the Huguenot legacy in both European and American history. The obverse design was crafted by George T. Morgan, a renowned engraver known for his work on the Morgan Silver Dollar.
The reverse of the coin depicts the ship "Nieuw Nederland," symbolizing the voyage of the Huguenot and Walloon settlers to the New World. The ship is shown in full sail, representing the courage and determination of the settlers as they embarked on their journey for religious freedom. The inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears above the ship, with “1624-1924” below, marking the 300th anniversary. The phrase “HALF DOLLAR” is inscribed at the bottom of the reverse. The detailed rendering of the ship and the surrounding elements highlights the artistic skill involved in the coin’s creation.
The Huguenot Half Dollar was minted in Philadelphia, with no mint mark, as was customary for Philadelphia-minted coins of that era. The total mintage for this commemorative issue was 142,080 coins, including 80 pieces struck for assay purposes. The relatively low mintage makes this coin a sought-after item for collectors. The Huguenot Half Dollar was authorized by an Act of Congress on February 26, 1923, and was released in 1924. It was distributed through the Huguenot-Walloon New Netherland Commission, Inc., which promoted the sale of the coins to raise funds for the commemoration of the tercentenary.
The coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, with a diameter of 30.6 mm and a weight of 12.5 grams. This standard composition for US half dollars at the time adds to the coin's intrinsic value. The reeded edge of the coin also contributes to its aesthetic and tactile appeal, providing a familiar texture to collectors and numismatists.
The AU (About Uncirculated) grade assigned to this Huguenot Half Dollar indicates that the coin exhibits only slight wear on the highest points of the design, with most of its original detail remaining intact. In AU condition, the coin retains much of its original luster and sharpness, making it an attractive piece for collectors. The intricate features of the portraits on the obverse and the ship on the reverse are well-preserved, providing a clear representation of the coin’s design and historical significance.
Beyond its numismatic value, the Huguenot Half Dollar serves as a historical artifact that honors the contributions of the Huguenot settlers to American history. It represents a period of struggle for religious freedom and the establishment of new communities in the New World. The coin’s design elements, including the portraits of Admiral Gaspard de Coligny and William the Silent and the depiction of the "Nieuw Nederland" ship, highlight the historical significance and the artistry involved in its creation.
Collectors prize the Huguenot Half Dollar for its historical significance, artistic design, and relatively low mintage. The AU grade ensures that the coin maintains a high level of detail and appeal, making it a valuable addition to any numismatic collection. The Huguenot Half Dollar stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Huguenots and their impact on American society. It remains a cherished piece of history, offering insight into the rich cultural heritage and the struggles for religious freedom that shaped early America.