The Antietam Half Dollar, issued in 1937, is a powerful tribute to one of the most significant and tragic events in American history: the Battle of Antietam. Known as the deadliest single-day battle of the American Civil War, Antietam occurred on September 17, 1862, near Sharpsburg, Maryland. The half dollar, minted to commemorate the battle’s 75th anniversary, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during this pivotal moment in the nation’s history.
The Battle of Antietam
The Battle of Antietam was a critical engagement between the Confederate Army, led by General Robert E. Lee, and the Union Army, commanded by General George B. McClellan. It marked Lee’s first attempt to invade the North and resulted in an unprecedented loss of life. Over 23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or went missing in a single day, making it the bloodiest day in American military history.
Although the battle ended inconclusively, it had far-reaching consequences. The Union’s strategic victory provided President Abraham Lincoln with the momentum needed to issue the Emancipation Proclamation, changing the course of the war and redefining its purpose as a fight for freedom.
The Creation of the Antietam Half Dollar
In 1937, Congress authorized the issuance of the Antietam Commemorative Half Dollar to honor the battle’s 75th anniversary and raise funds for the preservation of the Antietam National Battlefield. Designed by sculptor William Marks Simpson and his wife Edna Simpson, the coin reflects both the historical significance and the solemnity of the event.
The obverse of the coin features Generals Lee and McClellan, symbolizing the two opposing sides of the conflict. Their profiles face each other, reflecting the battle’s intense confrontation. The reverse displays an image of Burnside Bridge, a key landmark during the battle where Union forces made a critical push against Confederate defenses. The bridge has since become a symbol of the bravery and resilience of the soldiers who fought at Antietam.
Mintage and Distribution
The Antietam Half Dollar had a relatively low mintage of 50,000 coins, with approximately 18,000 remaining unsold and subsequently melted. This limited production has made the coin highly sought after by collectors. The coins were sold for $1.50 each, with proceeds benefiting efforts to preserve the battlefield and commemorate the lives lost during the conflict.
The Legacy of the Antietam Half Dollar
The Antietam Half Dollar is more than just a piece of currency; it is a tangible connection to one of the most defining moments in American history. It serves as a reminder of the cost of war and the importance of remembering those who gave their lives in service to their country. Today, the coin is cherished by collectors and Civil War enthusiasts alike, not only for its historical significance but also for its artistic design and symbolic weight.
By purchasing the Antietam Half Dollar, collectors contributed to the preservation of the Antietam National Battlefield, ensuring that future generations can visit the site and reflect on the sacrifices made there. The coin remains a testament to the enduring impact of the Battle of Antietam on the American psyche and its role in shaping the nation’s history.
Conclusion
The Antietam Half Dollar is a remarkable piece of numismatic art that captures the gravity and significance of the bloodiest day in American history. It honors both the soldiers who fought and the transformative consequences of the battle, making it an essential collectible for those interested in the Civil War, American history, and commemorative coinage.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the Antietam Half Dollar?
The Antietam Half Dollar was issued in 1937 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Antietam, the bloodiest single-day battle of the Civil War. It also helped raise funds to preserve the Antietam National Battlefield.
2. What is depicted on the Antietam Half Dollar?
The obverse features the profiles of Generals Robert E. Lee and George B. McClellan, while the reverse shows Burnside Bridge, a key landmark from the battle.
3. How rare is the Antietam Half Dollar?
With a mintage of only 50,000 coins, and many melted after poor sales, the Antietam Half Dollar is considered a scarce and sought-after collectible in the numismatic community.