Coins & Coins & Coins

In this episode of Coins & Coins & Coins, we dig into a coin that commemorates one of the most important turning points in American history—the 1925 Lexington-Concord Sesquicentennial Half Dollar. Struck to honor the 150th anniversary of the first battles of the American Revolutionary War, this coin was more than a piece of silver—it was a patriotic souvenir sold to fund local celebrations in Massachusetts.We’ll explore the design choices behind this historic coin, from the iconic "Minute Man" statue on the obverse to the Old Belfry on the reverse. Though packed with symbolism, the coin's artistic merits sparked debate, and not everyone was impressed with its final look.With over 160,000 coins minted and sold for just $1 at the time, it’s now one of the more affordable classic commemorative coins for collectors today. Whether you're new to coin collecting or just a fan of American history, this episode offers a look into how one coin connects art, patriotism, and memory of “the shot heard 'round the world.”

Step into the complex history of the 1925 Stone Mountain Memorial Half Dollar—one of the most controversial coins in U.S. commemorative history. This silver half dollar, minted in Philadelphia, features Confederate Generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson, and was created to fund the Stone Mountain Confederate monument in Georgia. Designed by Gutzon Borglum—who later sculpted Mount Rushmore and was associated with the Ku Klux Klan—the coin reflects deep ties to white supremacy and institutional racism of the era.Backed by the United Daughters of the Confederacy, the fundraising campaign—dubbed the “Harvest Campaign”—distributed coins based on white population and bank deposits. Despite over 2 million coins minted, nearly half were melted due to poor sales and growing national controversy.On this episode of Coins & Coins & Coins, we unpack the coin’s design, symbolism, historical context, and modern collectibility. From Civil War memory to the politics of public monuments, this episode explores how a seemingly simple coin became a lightning rod for cultural conflict—then and now.If you’re a coin collector, history buff, or curious listener, this is one story you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of Coins & Coins & Coins, we explore the fascinating and controversial story behind the 1924 Huguenot-Walloon Tercentenary Half Dollar. Issued to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the founding of New Netherland (present-day New York), this U.S. commemorative coin honors the arrival of Protestant Huguenot and Walloon settlers aboard the Nieuw Nederlandt in 1624. Designed by George T. Morgan—famed for the Morgan Dollar—the coin features busts of Admiral Gaspard de Coligny and William the Silent, spiritual leaders who never actually set foot in the New World.Backed by the Federal Council of Churches of Christ in America, the coin sparked debate over the separation of church and state and was criticized for promoting religious propaganda. It also drew fire for featuring historical figures who had no direct link to the 1624 voyage. With over 55,000 unsold coins eventually released into circulation, the Huguenot-Walloon Half Dollar became both a collector’s item and a case study in the politics of U.S. commemorative coinage.Join us as we unpack the symbolism, controversy, and collectibility of one of the most debated coins in American numismatic history. A must-listen for coin collectors and history lovers alike!

🎙️ Discover the Story Behind the 1923 Monroe Doctrine Centennial Half Dollar on Coins & Coins & Coins! This episode explores a fascinating intersection of history, Hollywood, and U.S. coinage. Struck to honor the 100th anniversary of the Monroe Doctrine, this commemorative half dollar featured Presidents James Monroe and John Quincy Adams and was tied to a grand—but ultimately failed—Los Angeles exposition.Designed by Chester Beach and minted in San Francisco, the 1923 coin was part of a public relations effort by the troubled Hollywood film industry. The exposition promised pageantry, historical reenactments, and even plans to produce educational films, but financial failure led to many coins entering circulation at face value.We’ll dive into the coin’s controversial design, its limited success, and the congressional debate that questioned the dignity of U.S. commemorative coinage. Learn how this silver half dollar became a symbol of overambition, market saturation, and artistic controversy.Perfect for numismatists, history buffs, and collectors alike, this episode uncovers the little-known legacy of the Monroe Doctrine Centennial Half Dollar. 💰🇺🇸

Discover the fascinating story behind the 1922 Grant Memorial Half Dollar, one of the most unique and sought-after coins in U.S. commemorative coin history. In this episode of Coins & Coins & Coins, we dive deep into the historical significance, rare varieties, and collectible value of this classic silver half dollar issued to honor the 100th birthday of President Ulysses S. Grant.Minted in Philadelphia and designed by acclaimed sculptor Laura Gardin Fraser, this coin features a striking portrait of Grant and his Ohio log cabin home. But what truly sets it apart is the mysterious "star" variety—an unplanned minting quirk that created one of the rarest U.S. commemorative coins ever released.Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a new coin collector, you'll learn about the coin’s origin, the reason behind its two varieties ("with star" vs. "no star"), and how these differences impact market value. We also touch on how some coins ended up in circulation during the Great Depression, adding even more intrigue to their history.If you’re interested in rare coins, U.S. silver half dollars, or simply love exploring American history through money, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

The 1921 Alabama Centennial Half Dollar — History, Design, and ValueIn this episode of Coins & Coins & Coins, we explore the rich history and legacy of the 1921 Alabama Centennial Half Dollar, one of the most intriguing classic U.S. commemorative coins. Minted to honor Alabama's 100th anniversary of statehood (1819–1919), this coin wasn't struck until 1921 due to legislative delays. Authorized by Congress and driven by Alabama's Centennial Commission, this half dollar was part of a fundraising effort for historic preservation.Designed by Laura Gardin Fraser, the first woman to design a U.S. coin, it features jugate portraits of William W. Bibb and sitting Governor Thomas Kilby—making it the first U.S. coin to depict a living person. We also uncover the story behind the rare “2X2” variety, symbolizing Alabama’s position as the 22nd state and tied to the state's iconic X-shaped flag.Collectors will appreciate insights into mintage figures, striking challenges, market values, grading tips, and why high-grade examples are rare and highly prized. Whether you're a numismatist or new to coin collecting, this episode delivers expert analysis on one of the most historically rich and collectible silver half dollars ever issued.

 Boone, Stars, and Silver: The 1921 Missouri Centennial Half DollarIn this episode of Coins & Coins & Coins, we dive into the wild frontier of U.S. coin history with the 1921 Missouri Centennial Half Dollar—a rare and fascinating collectible struck to celebrate Missouri’s 100th year of statehood. Designed by famed sculptor Robert Aitken, this coin features Daniel Boone, 24 stars, and even a mysterious “2★4” marking.Why does it say “SEDALIA”? Why are some coins missing famous phrases like “In God We Trust”? And what makes this coin so rare today?Join us as we explore how this commemorative silver half dollar was minted, marketed, melted—and ultimately, became a prized piece for collectors. Learn how to spot the real thing, avoid counterfeits, and hear the untold story behind a coin that’s as much about American westward expansion as it is about numismatic rarity.

1920 Maine Centennial Half Dollar – History, Design & ValueThe 1920 Maine Centennial Half Dollar is a classic U.S. commemorative coin issued to mark the 100th anniversary of Maine’s statehood. Struck in 90% silver by the Philadelphia Mint, this half dollar was not released into general circulation but sold at a premium — $1 per coin — as part of a fundraising effort for centennial celebrations.The coin’s design draws directly from Maine’s state identity. The obverse features the state seal with a pine tree, moose, and two figures — a farmer and a sailor — along with the Latin motto “Dirigo,” meaning “I lead.” The reverse is framed by pine needles and cones and includes the bold inscription “Maine Centennial 1820–1920.”Artist Harry Cochrane created the original concept, while sculptor Anthony de Francisci — later famed for designing the Peace Dollar — turned it into a finished design. Despite its symbolism, the coin received mixed reviews for its artistic quality.Only 50,028 coins were minted, and they arrived too late for Portland’s official celebration. Most examples were eventually sold, many through the Maine state treasurer’s office. Today, this coin appeals to collectors for its historical significance, low mintage, and connection to early 20th-century American commemoratives. High-grade uncirculated examples are rare and can command a premium in the coin market.

Curious about the story behind America’s very first commemorative coin—and the world’s fair it helped fund? 🎙️Join us on our latest podcast episode as we explore the fascinating history of the 1892–1893 Columbian Exposition Half Dollar and the monumental event it was created for: the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This coin wasn’t just pocket change—it marked a turning point in U.S. coinage and commemorated the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s voyage to the New World.But the story doesn’t stop there. We’ll take you inside the “White City,” a dazzling fairground of grand architecture, cultural exhibits, and technological marvels. You’ll hear about groundbreaking contributions from women, the creation of the first chocolate brownie, and the troubling exclusion of African Americans and other cultures from the main exhibits.Whether you’re a coin collector, history lover, or just someone who enjoys a good story, this episode uncovers a slice of American history that’s both inspiring and complex.🎧 Tune in and discover how one coin and one fair left a legacy that still shapes how we celebrate—and debate—our past. Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts!

The Daniel Boone Bicentennial Half Dollar is a distinctive US commemorative coin produced from 1934 to 1938. Its creation was authorized by Congress to mark the 200th anniversary of Daniel Boone's birth and to generate funds for restoring historic sites linked to him in Kentucky.Designed by Henry Augustus Lukeman, the coin features Daniel Boone on the front. The back displays Boone alongside a Native American (Shawnee Chief Black Fish), a stockade, and a rising sun. While technically legal tender, these coins were made specifically for collectors, not for spending, and are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.A notable aspect of its story is the controversy over its distribution. In 1935, a scarce variant with a "small 1934" date on the reverse was issued in limited numbers. C. Frank Dunn, secretary of the Bicentennial Commission, promoted these as rarities, leading to accusations of price manipulation and frustrating many collectors.Today, the value of a Daniel Boone Bicentennial Half Dollar differs greatly depending on its year, mint location, and physical condition. While more common types in average condition might be worth just above their silver value, rare versions or those in pristine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For instance, a high-grade 1937-D Boone coin once sold for over $10,000.

The 1925 Stone Mountain Memorial Half Dollar is a U.S. coin created to help fund the carving of the Stone Mountain Memorial in Georgia. This monument was intended to honor Confederate leaders like Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson, who are depicted on horseback on the coin. Interestingly, the coin was also meant to commemorate President Warren G. Harding, but this idea was removed from the final design.The coin was designed by Gutzon Borglum, who later became famous for Mount Rushmore. However, his initial designs for the Stone Mountain coin were not readily accepted. While the sale of the coin was meant to support the large-scale carving project, it didn't raise as much money as hoped, partly due to objections from Union Civil War veterans. The Stone Mountain carving project itself had a difficult history and was finished much later by a different artist. Despite these challenges, over a million of these half dollars were made, so they are not extremely rare today.

The 1943 steel penny was a special U.S. one-cent coin created during World War II. To save copper for military needs like ammunition, the usual bronze penny was temporarily replaced with one made of steel coated in zinc. This made the 1943 penny magnetic and lighter. Although over a billion were made, people didn't like them much, often mistaking them for dimes and finding they rusted easily. The U.S. Mint went back to copper in 1944. While most 1943 steel pennies are common today, a few very rare and valuable ones were accidentally made using copper instead of steel. You can tell these rare copper pennies apart because they are not magnetic.

Explore the fascinating world of U.S. Classic Commemorative Coins, minted between 1892 and 1954. This era includes 144 silver issues—primarily half dollars—along with a single quarter and dollar. Highlights include iconic pieces such as the 1892 World’s Columbian Exposition half dollar and the 1954 George Washington Carver/Booker T. Washington half dollar.These coins commemorate significant events and influential figures in American history, from the World’s Columbian Exposition to the Old Spanish Trail. While complete mintage data for every coin and mint may not always be available, we’ll examine key examples and explore the factors that affect their value and collectibility.Join us as we uncover the rich history and striking designs that make these classic commemoratives a favorite among collectors.