The 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar Turns 100

In 1920, the United States minted a coin to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Pilgrims’ arrival in America aboard the Mayflower. This coin, known as the 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar, has since become a key piece in American numismatics, celebrated for its historical significance, unique design, and place in the history of U.S. coinage. As we mark the centennial of its release, let’s take a closer look at this iconic coin, its origins, and its enduring appeal.

Historical Context

The 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar was struck to honor the Pilgrims’ landing at Plymouth Rock in 1620. This was a time when the U.S. government was keen on issuing commemorative coins to celebrate significant events and milestones in American history. The Pilgrim coin, however, was somewhat unique as it was part of a broader commemorative movement that coincided with the nation’s increasing interest in celebrating its history through the issuance of coins.

Design and Features

The design of the 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar is rich with symbolism. The obverse of the coin features an image of William Bradford, the governor of the Plymouth Colony, with the inscription “Pilgrim 1620.” This design was created by Joseph P. Weitz, a prominent sculptor and engraver. Bradford is depicted as a dignified leader, evoking the importance of his role in the success of the Plymouth Colony. Above the image, the word “Liberty” appears in bold letters, while the year “1920” is inscribed at the bottom of the coin.

Mintage and Rarity

The 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar had a relatively low mintage. Only 200,000 coins were produced, and of those, approximately 150,000 were struck in the first year of production. Over time, many of these coins have been lost or melted down, making the remaining examples highly sought after by collectors. The coin’s rarity, combined with its historical significance, makes it a key item for numismatic enthusiasts.

Significance in Numismatics

The 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar is not only important as a piece of American history but also for its role in shaping the future of commemorative coinage in the U.S. It represents one of the first major efforts to create coins to honor American historical events. This tradition continued in subsequent years with numerous other commemorative coins, including those celebrating the U.S. Constitution, the Louisiana Purchase, and the founding of various states.

Collecting the 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar

The 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar remains a popular and valuable coin for collectors. Its history, artistry, and rarity make it a treasured item in both beginner and advanced coin collections. Whether you are a seasoned numismatist or someone just starting their collection, the Pilgrim Half Dollar offers a tangible connection to the early days of American history.

Conclusion

As the 1920 Pilgrim Commemorative Half Dollar turns 100 years old, it remains a beautiful and significant piece of American history. The coin stands as a tribute to the Pilgrims who made a historic journey to the New World, and it has since become a key item in the numismatic world. Whether as a memento of the nation’s early days or a valuable collectible, the Pilgrim Half Dollar continues to hold a special place in American coinage history.

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