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The 1936-S Texas Commemorative Half Dollar, graded MS66 by PCGS, is a striking example of a U.S. commemorative coin that honors the centennial of Texas’s independence from Mexico. First authorized by Congress in 1934, the Texas Half Dollar was issued between 1934 and 1938, making it one of the more widely produced classic U.S. commemorative coins. Designed by Pompeo Coppini, an Italian-born sculptor, this half dollar features intricate and symbolic designs that pay tribute to the rich history of Texas, from its struggle for independence to its status as a U.S. state. The 1936-S issue, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is particularly significant as it was produced during the height of the centennial celebrations and represents a well-preserved, high-grade example of this historic coin.
The obverse of the 1936-S Texas Commemorative Half Dollar features an eagle in a striking pose, with its wings partially outstretched. Behind the eagle is a large, five-pointed star, which serves as a prominent symbol of the state of Texas, often referred to as the "Lone Star State." The eagle stands on a branch that appears to be olive or laurel, symbolizing peace and victory. Surrounding the eagle and star are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "HALF DOLLAR." The intricate details of the eagle’s feathers and the textures of the star are beautifully executed, especially in high-grade examples like this MS66 piece, where the luster remains vibrant and the details sharp. The coin’s design is both bold and balanced, combining traditional American iconography with symbols unique to Texas’s history.
The reverse of the 1936-S Texas Half Dollar is even more elaborate, with a depiction of the Goddess Victory spreading her wings over the Alamo, the iconic site of the 1836 battle where Texas revolutionaries fought against Mexican forces. In her left hand, Victory holds an olive branch, while her right hand rests protectively over the Alamo. To her left and right are the six flags that have flown over Texas throughout its history: Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the Confederate States, and the United States. These flags symbolize the complex and diverse history of Texas and its many rulers over the centuries. Surrounding this intricate design are the inscriptions "THE TEXAS INDEPENDENCE CENTENNIAL" and the dual dates "1836" and "1936." In MS66 condition, the details of Victory’s wings, the Alamo’s architecture, and the flags are sharply struck and beautifully preserved, creating a reverse that is as rich in detail as it is in symbolism.
The Texas Commemorative Half Dollar was originally issued to raise funds for the Texas Centennial Exposition and to celebrate the state’s independence from Mexico. Texas had declared its independence in 1836, following the famous Battle of the Alamo and the victory at the Battle of San Jacinto. The centennial celebrations in 1936 included large public events, including the Texas Centennial Exposition held in Dallas, which attracted millions of visitors. The half dollar was sold to the public to commemorate the occasion and to raise funds for the preservation of historical sites in Texas, particularly the Alamo. Although the coin was minted over a period of several years, the design remained unchanged, with the 1936-S issue representing one of the key dates for collectors due to its association with the centennial year.
The 1936-S Texas Commemorative Half Dollar was minted at the San Francisco Mint, one of three mints to produce the Texas Half Dollar during its run. The "S" mint mark, located on the reverse beneath the eagle’s wing, identifies this coin as having been struck in San Francisco. The San Francisco Mint, known for producing high-quality strikes, issued fewer Texas Half Dollars compared to the Philadelphia Mint, which makes the San Francisco issues more desirable among collectors, particularly in higher grades like MS66. The exact mintage for the 1936-S Texas Half Dollar was 10,008 coins, a relatively low number compared to some other commemorative issues of the time, adding to its appeal for numismatists.
In MS66 condition, this 1936-S Texas Half Dollar offers collectors a superb combination of historical significance, artistic beauty, and preservation. Coins in this grade exhibit strong luster, sharp details, and minimal contact marks, making them highly desirable for collectors of U.S. commemorative coinage. The obverse and reverse designs remain crisp, with no significant wear or distractions, allowing the intricate elements of Coppini’s design to be fully appreciated. High-grade examples like this one are scarce, as many of the Texas Half Dollars from this period circulated or were mishandled over time, making pristine examples like this MS66 piece a prized find for collectors.
The 1936-S Texas Commemorative Half Dollar MS66 PCGS is not just a well-preserved coin, but a piece of American and Texan history. Its design tells the story of Texas’s struggle for independence and its place within the broader narrative of American expansion. The combination of artistry, symbolism, and historical significance makes the Texas Half Dollar one of the standout issues in the classic commemorative series. For collectors who appreciate both high-grade coins and the stories behind them, this 1936-S Texas Half Dollar is an excellent addition to any collection, offering a lasting tribute to the Lone Star State and its centennial celebration.