1926 Sesquicentennial 50C PCGS MS64 CAC. When anyone refers to the “Sesqui” half dollar, or Sesquicentennial half dollar as it is more commonly referred to, they are most likely talking about the 1926 coin issued for the 150th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The Sesquicentennial half dollar was produced in conjunction with the Sesquicentennial International Exposition of 1926 that was held in Philadelphia , Pennsylvania which opened on May 31, 1926 . In order to help raise funds for financing the fair, special issues of half dollars and quarter eagles were authorized by Congress.

Designed by John R. Sinnock, Chief engraver of the United States Mint from 1925-1947, the Sesquicentennial half dollar’s obverse bears side-by-side portraits of George Washington and Calvin Coolidge. The Sesquicentennial half dollar marks the first time that portrait of a president appeared on a coin struck during his own lifetime.

Congress authorized the production of 1 million coins, anticipating a huge turnout due to the occasion’s significance. Although the Exposition drew in nearly 6 million visitors, sales of the coin were modest and huge quantities were returned to be melted. The total mintage came to only 141,120 coins.

The example displayed here is graded MS-64 by PCGS and its grade is further verified by the Coin Acceptance Corporation, “CAC.” This example features gleaming surfaces with sporadic toning. This coin is exceptionally rare to find in high mint state grades due to the very low relief dies that were used to strike the coin, which caused the loss of much detail. This piece is high grade example of a very historic coin, perfect for any collector looking to expand their classic commemorative collection.