World's Columbian Exposition Chicago 1893 Half Dollar
Introduction
The World's Columbian Exposition, also known as the Chicago World's Fair, was held in Chicago in 1893 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus' arrival in the New World. The organizers of the fair decided to issue a commemorative coin to mark the occasion, and thus the World's Columbian Exposition Chicago 1893 Half Dollar was born.
The Design
The design of the World's Columbian Exposition Chicago 1893 Half Dollar was created by Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the United States Mint. The obverse of the coin features the bust of Christopher Columbus, while the reverse portrays a ship of Columbus' era sailing towards the New World. The coin has the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "COLUMBIAN HALF DOLLAR" on the obverse and reverse respectively.
The Production
The World's Columbian Exposition Chicago 1893 Half Dollar was produced in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints. The total mintage of the coin was 1,550,405, with 950,000 coins struck in Philadelphia, 100,000 in Denver, and 500,405 in San Francisco. The coins were sold at the fair for $1 each, and were also available through mail order for $1.25 each.
The Value
The value of the World's Columbian Exposition Chicago 1893 Half Dollar depends on its condition and rarity. A coin in uncirculated condition can fetch up to $1,000, while a circulated coin can be worth anywhere between $50 and $500. The coins struck in San Francisco are the most valuable, as they have a lower mintage compared to the coins from Philadelphia and Denver.
The Legacy
The World's Columbian Exposition Chicago 1893 Half Dollar has become a popular collector's item due to its historical significance and beautiful design. It is a reminder of the grandeur of the World's Columbian Exposition, which was the largest world's fair up to that time. The coin also marks an important event in American history, as it commemorates the discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus.
The Conclusion
The World's Columbian Exposition Chicago 1893 Half Dollar is a fascinating piece of American history and a beautiful work of art. Its value and popularity among collectors have only increased over time, making it an excellent investment for those interested in numismatics. Whether you are a collector or just a history buff, the World's Columbian Exposition Chicago 1893 Half Dollar is definitely worth checking out.