Five Classic Commemorative Coins Every Collector Should Have

Perhaps you mostly collect modern coins because they tend to be more affordable and easier to learn about. Maybe you like the older coins of our nation but aren’t sure what you can get that won’t break `the bank.

Well, for about the same cost as many Silver Eagles and quite a bit less than those more pricey, key date coins, especially in high grades, there are a lot of classic American commemorative half dollar coins – a core part of the hobby that has been a favorite of collectors for generations. Not to mention, that this area has been undervalued for quite a few years, meaning there are bargains to be had.

A complete set does get expensive, especially since there are some coins that are pricey in any grade like the 1928 Hawaiian Sesquicentennial half dollar that starts at about $2,000.

But there are five silver half dollars, the core of the commemorative coins issued from 1892 to 1954, that every collector should have even if they are not working on a complete set of these coins. They celebrate several of the most important events in our history, have excellent designs and can be purchased by most collectors unless you need the highest grade available.

1918 Illinois Centennial half dollar

First is the 1918 Illinois Centennial half dollar issued to mark the 100^th anniversary of Illinois’ admission to the union – the first of what would be many such coins issued subsequently. It is mainly so popular because it was the first silver coin to feature a profile of President Abraham Lincoln on it designed by former chief engraver George T. Morgan. The reverse by assistant engraver John R. Sinnock, who would later design the Franklin half dollar, depicts the Illinoi state seal with an eagle grasping a Union shield.

100,058 of these coins were made, and many have nice toning. If you are on a budget, you can get an XF for about $110, which is very reasonable for an American silver coin that is over 100 years old on our most popular president. But if you can afford to spend a little more, a nice MS64 is $250, while the top grade of MS68 is over $21,500!

1925 Stone Mountain Memorial half dollar

Next is the 1925 Stone Mountain Memorial half dollar, which was issued to help raise funds for the massive sculptures carved from the granite of Stone Mountain, Georgia that depicts Southern Civil War leaders, General Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. Begun in 1910, it was only completed in 1970.

Over 1.3 million of these were sold, and both sides of the coin were designed by Gutzon Borglom, who is the sculptor who created the amazing monument itself. Because that is a large number for a classic commemorative, these coins are plentiful in the market. A nice  circulated example can be had for just $75, while an MS63 is $100, and an MS65 only $215 – the recommended grade if you can swing it. A top graded MS68 runs over $22,000.

1920 Pilgrim Centenary

Third is the 1920 Pilgrim Centenary, also issued in 1921, to mark the 400 ^th anniversary of the landing of the Mayflower at Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1620. The obverse shows William Bradford, the second governor of Plymouth Colony, while the reverse features the familiar image of the Mayflower ship that brought the pilgrims to our shores from England.

200,000 of the 1920-dated coins were issued, but only 152,000 were sold, and the rest were melted and re-coined with the 1921 date, which is why the 1920 is less expensive. Only 20,000 of those 48,000 were sold, making the 1921 much scarcer. An XF 1920 is only $65, a nice  mint state coin (around MS62) is $120 and MS65 just $235, while an MS68 is $15,000.

1926 Sesquicentennial of American Independence

Fourth, there is the 1926 Sesquicentennial of American Independence issued for the 150^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Originally planned as part of a series, only this coin and a gold $2.50 coin were issued. The half’s obverse shows right-facing busts of George Washington and Calvin Coolidge, who was president at the time, while the reverse features the Liberty Bell. One million coins were authorized and struck, but only 140,059 were sold, so the rest were melted.

An XF runs just $60, while an MS60 is $120 and an MS64 $225, which is the recommended grade if you can afford it as at MS65 prices jump to $1,100 and then $19,000 in the top grade of MS66. A nice MS64 that is solid for the grade has good potential for appreciation given what coins of the next grade go for.

In 2026 the U.S. Mint will be striking special one-year only circulation coins for the 250 ^th anniversary as well as possibly some commemorative coins for the event, and the 1926 coins may see a bump in popularity as that approaches.

1926-1939 Oregon Trail half dollar

Last, but not least is the one whose design is widely heralded by collectors and numismatists as the best of the series: the 1926-1939 Oregon Trail half dollar . This beautiful coin features a reverse designed by Laura Gardin Fraser that depicts a standing Native American man in headdress holding a bow and arrow, and an obverse by her husband James Earle Fraser, designer of the Buffalo nickel, with a Conestoga wagon driven by oxen to symbolize those many people who traveled west on the Oregon Trail in the mid-1800’s.

Congress authorized the striking of up to six million of these coins that were issued over a 14-year period despite much lower than expected sales numbers. The actual mintage of all of them totals 202,928, or just 4% of the amount originally authorized. The 1926 coins are the most common with the highest mintages, while the 1939 issues are the scarcest with only 3,000 each of the 1939, 1939-D and 1939-S coins.

An XF of the most common ones of this type is just $110, an MS60 $150, and an MS65 is $275. Go for an MS66 at around $350 if you can afford it. These coins are always in demand with collectors because of the exceptional design.

A nice mint state group of these five coins would make a nice starter set of classic commemoratives and tells the highlights of our history from the pilgrims to the nation’s founding and the Civil War. You could always get some lightly circulated coins to start and then upgrade to some better graded mint state pieces later.

FAQ

What are Classic Commemorative Coins?

Classic Commemorative Coins are U.S. coins issued between 1892 and 1954 to commemorate significant events, anniversaries, or individuals. They were struck in limited quantities and are highly valued by collectors due to their historical significance, intricate designs, and limited mintage.

Which Classic Commemorative Coins are most collected?

Some of the most collected Classic Commemorative Coins include the 1892-1893 Columbian Exposition Half Dollar, the 1921 Alabama Centennial Half Dollar, the 1936 Battle of Gettysburg Half Dollar, and the 1928 Hawaiian Sesquicentennial Half Dollar. These coins are sought after for their historical relevance and artistic designs.

What is the value of Classic Commemorative Coins?

The value of Classic Commemorative Coins can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on factors like rarity, condition, and demand. Coins with low mintage numbers or those in exceptional condition (e.g., graded MS-65 or higher) tend to be more valuable.

How can I identify a Classic Commemorative Coin?

Classic Commemorative Coins are identifiable by their unique designs, which often feature inscriptions of the event or figure they commemorate, along with dates of issue. The coins typically have a denomination of 50 cents, though there are also commemorative quarters, dollars, and gold coins.

Why are Classic Commemorative Coins popular among collectors?

Collectors are drawn to Classic Commemorative Coins because of their historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and the challenge of completing a full set. The limited mintage and the stories behind each coin also add to their allure.

What are the rarest Classic Commemorative Coins?

Some of the rarest Classic Commemorative Coins include the 1921 Missouri Centennial Half Dollar (with "2x4" marking), the 1922 Grant Memorial Half Dollar with a star, and the 1935 Hudson, New York Sesquicentennial Half Dollar. These coins are rare due to their low mintage and unique design elements.

How can I start collecting Classic Commemorative Coins?

To start collecting, focus on acquiring well-preserved coins with clear historical significance. Begin with common issues like the 1893 Columbian Exposition Half Dollar, and gradually seek out rarer coins. Joining a numismatic society and studying coin catalogs can also help you build your collection.

What is the difference between Classic and Modern Commemorative Coins?

Classic Commemorative Coins were issued between 1892 and 1954, often in half-dollar denominations, with designs reflecting significant events or figures of the time. Modern Commemorative Coins, issued from 1982 onwards, have broader themes and are available in various denominations, including gold and silver.

Are Classic Commemorative Coins a good investment?

Classic Commemorative Coins can be a good investment due to their historical importance, rarity, and potential for value appreciation over time. However, as with any collectible, market demand can fluctuate, so it's important to focus on well-preserved and rare coins.

Where can I buy Classic Commemorative Coins?

Classic Commemorative Coins can be purchased from reputable coin dealers, at coin shows, or through online auction sites like eBay. It’s essential to buy from trusted sources and consider coins that have been graded by professional services like PCGS or NGC to ensure authenticity and value.