Hawaii Sesquicentennial half dollar

The Hawaii Sesquicentennial Half Dollar: A Rare Gem in American Numismatics

Imagine a coin so rare and valuable that it’s almost like finding a piece of history itself—such is the case with the Hawaii Sesquicentennial half dollar. Struck by the US Bureau of the Mint in 1928, this commemorative coin was created to honor Captain James Cook’s landing on the Hawaiian Islands 150 years earlier. But how did such a unique and valuable piece come into existence? Let’s dive into its fascinating journey.

The Birth of an Idea

In 1927, the Territory of Hawaii legislature passed a resolution calling for a commemorative coin to mark the occasion. The bill was approved without opposition or amendment by Congress and became law with President Calvin Coolidge’s signature in March 1928. This decision set the stage for what would become one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics.

The Design Process

For the design, sculptor Chester Beach created plaster models from Juliette May Fraser’s sketches. However, there were concerns raised about the designs, which were eventually addressed. A resolution was passed by the Territory of Hawaii to celebrate Cook’s arrival and requested that Washington issue a half dollar and postage stamps. The US government issued a half dollar in honor of the anniversary.

The Selection Process

The coin design was chosen through a selection process involving the Cook Sesquicentennial Commission of Hawaii, the Commission of Fine Arts, and sculptor Chester Beach. James Earle Fraser ultimately created the plaster models for the coins. The bill to authorize the coin’s production likely had bipartisan support before it was submitted, according to numismatic historian Don Taxay.

The Minting Process

Beach forwarded final models indicating he would only consider changes if Mint requested it. He suggested taking sculptor and family to Hawaii for atmosphere. The coin was endorsed by the Commission of Fine Arts on May 9, O’Reilly wrote to Beach that design had received Secretary Mellon’s approval.

The Coin Design

The obverse depicts Captain James Cook facing westward with words ‘CAPT. JAMES COOK DISCOVERER OF HAWAII’ above his head and ‘IN GOD WE TRUST’ below it. The reverse features a statue of King Kamehameha I of Hawaii, representing past and future glory of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

The coin also features eight volcanic islands of Hawaii and the designer’s initials CB to its right. A Hawaiian chieftain in ceremonial dress surmounts a hill with arm extended in greeting, surrounded by palm tree and village at Waikiki Beach. Only ‘E PLURIBUS UNUM’ and 1778-1928 are visible on the design.

The Production and Sale

The Philadelphia Mint produced 10,008 coins, including 50 sandblast proof pieces for special presentation to individuals and institutions. Half of the coins were sold on the Hawaiian Islands, half reserved for orders elsewhere. The Bank of Hawaii distributed the coins at $2 each, the highest price for a half dollar commemorative at that time.

Sales began October 8, 1928, and supplies quickly ran out. Rumors circulated about hoards of coins taken from the allocation for Hawaiians. Many coins were purchased by non-collectors, showing signs of poor handling. The coin is now considered one of the scarcest commemorative half dollars, listed for $1,850 to $11,000 depending on condition.

Conclusion

The Hawaii Sesquicentennial half dollar stands as a testament to history and craftsmanship. Its rarity and value make it a prized possession among collectors, much like finding a hidden treasure in the vast ocean of American numismatics. This coin not only commemorates an important historical event but also serves as a beautiful piece of art that captures the essence of both Captain Cook’s discovery and King Kamehameha I’s legacy.

Condensed Infos to Hawaii Sesquicentennial half dollar