In 1919, Alabama celebrated 100 years of being a state, and to honor this occasion, a special half dollar coin was made two years later. The Alabama Centennial Half Dollar is not just another coin; it has a unique history and even features a living person on it. This guide will help you understand the story behind this coin, its design, and why it is important for collectors.
The Background of Alabama’s Statehood
Alabama became the 22nd state of the United States on December 14, 1819. The area that is now Alabama was explored by Spain in 1540 and later settled by the French in 1702. After a series of treaties and changes in control among Native Americans, British, Spanish, and French settlers, Alabama finally became a state when Spain ceded its claim to the coastal territory.
Key Historical Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1540 | Spanish exploration of present-day Alabama |
| 1702 | French settlement begins |
| 1819 | Alabama admitted to the Union |
| 1861 | Alabama secedes from the Union |
| 1868 | Alabama’s statehood is restored |
During the 19th century, Alabama’s economy relied heavily on slavery. By the time the Civil War started, over 45% of Alabama’s population was enslaved. After the war, the state went through a difficult period known as Reconstruction, where newly freed people fought for their rights, but equality was still far away.
The Creation of the Alabama Centennial Half Dollar
The coin was authorized in 1920 to celebrate the centennial of Alabama’s statehood. The Alabama Centennial Commission, led by Mrs. Marie Bankhead Owen, proposed several designs for the coin. Eventually, they settled on a design that featured the state seal and portraits of the first and the current governors.
The Coin Design
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Obverse | Portraits of Governors William Wyatt Bibb (1819) and Thomas Kilby (1919) |
| Reverse | An eagle from the Alabama state seal, with the motto “HERE WE REST” |
| Special Mark | Some coins have a “2X2” mark, indicating a special edition |
The final design shows the two governors’ faces side by side, with stars representing Alabama’s admission as the 22nd state. The reverse side features an eagle holding a ribbon inscribed with the state motto.
Minting and Distribution
The coins were first distributed on October 26, 1921, during a ceremony attended by President Warren Harding. A total of 100,000 coins were minted, but only 64,038 were the regular version, and 6,006 had the special “2X2” mark.
Minting Statistics
| Type | Mintage Count |
|---|---|
| Plain Alabama Half Dollar | 64,038 |
| Special “2X2” Alabama Half Dollar | 6,006 |
Most of these coins were sold to the general public, and they were often used as pocket change during the Great Depression. As a result, many of the surviving coins are in lower grades.
Collecting the Alabama Half Dollar
For coin collectors, the Alabama Centennial Half Dollar is a must-have. It is often collected in two varieties: the plain version and the special “2X2” version. Both versions are interesting, but they are not as drastically different in rarity or value as some other coins.
Grading and Value
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| MS63 | $350 |
| MS65 | $600-$700 |
| MS67 | $10,000+ |
Coins are graded based on their condition, which ranges from “Poor” to “Mint State” (MS). Higher-grade coins are rarer and more valuable.
Why Is This Coin Important?
The Alabama Centennial Half Dollar is significant not just for its design but also for its historical context. It was the first commemorative coin to feature a living person, which was a groundbreaking decision at the time. The artistry of Laura Gardin Fraser, who designed the coin, is highly regarded, and her work contributed to the overall appeal of commemorative coins in the early 20th century.
Conclusion
The 1921 Alabama Centennial Half Dollar is more than just a piece of currency; it tells a story about Alabama’s history, the challenges of its past, and the artistry behind coin design. For collectors, owning this coin is not just about its value; it’s about connecting with a significant moment in American history. Whether you are a serious collector or just starting, this coin deserves a place in your collection. Its unique history, beautiful design, and the story of Alabama make it an interesting addition to any numismatic journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the 1921 Alabama Centennial Half Dollar?
The 1921 Alabama Centennial Half Dollar is a commemorative coin issued to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Alabama’s admission to the United States. It features the portraits of Alabama’s first governor, William Wyatt Bibb, and the current governor at the time, Thomas Kilby.
2. Why is this coin significant?
This coin is significant because it was the first commemorative coin to depict a living person. It also reflects Alabama’s history, including its economic reliance on slavery and the social changes during the Reconstruction era.
3. How many different versions of this coin were minted?
A total of 100,000 coins were authorized, with 64,038 being the standard version and 6,006 having a special “2X2” mark. Both versions are sought after by collectors.