The Columbian half dollar was the first commemorative coin issued by the United States. It was struck in 1892 and 1893 to raise funds for the World's Columbian Exposition and to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus' arrival in the Americas in 1492.
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| Columbus' portrait is on the obverse. |
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| A depiction of the Santa Maria on the reverse. |
It is the first American coin to depict a historical figure.
About 4 million half dollars were struck with the 1892 date. On January 1, 1893, the half-dollar year was changed. A total of 5,002,105 Columbian half dollars were struck.
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| A national campaign advertised in 100s of newspapers. |
Approximately half the coins were released into circulation and used into the 1950s. Only about 400,000 uncirculated coins were sold as souvenirs for $1.00. Far less than anticipated. Proof-grade coins were premium prices.
Today (2023), the highest quality coin appraises around $10,000. The remaining coins were melted for other coin blanks. Circulated Columbian half dollars can be purchased online for less than $20.00.
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| The 1892 replica of the Santa María (initially the La Gallega) |
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The Santa María was armed with several cannons and carried a complement of 40 men. Armed with 4 × 90 mm bombards and 50 mm culebrinas. The hull length was 62 feet and a 41 foot keel length with three masts. Christopher Columbus sailed the Santa María with the Santa Clara (The Girl) and the La Pinta (The Painted) on his first voyage to the Americas in 1492.
Copyright © 2023, Dr. Neil Gale, Ph.D.
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