-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 56308
Checkout
The Certified Commemorative Half Dollar 1936 York MS66 PCGS is an exceptionally well-preserved and historically rich coin from the classic era of United States commemorative coinage. Struck to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the founding of York County, Maine, this coin is part of a series of commemoratives minted during the 1930s to commemorate American colonial and regional milestones. With a grade of MS66 by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), this example represents one of the finer known specimens, showcasing sharp details, vibrant luster, and minimal marks from handling or production.
The York Commemorative Half Dollar was authorized by Congress on June 26, 1936, with a total authorized mintage of 30,000 pieces. It was issued under the sponsorship of the York County Tercentenary Commission to raise funds for local celebrations and to promote historical awareness of the region's colonial roots. York County, established in 1636 when Maine was part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest counties in America. The issuance of this coin served to highlight not only local pride but also the broader colonial heritage of the New England area.
The obverse of the 1936 York Half Dollar was designed by Walter H. Rich and features the Seal of York County. At its center is a shield adorned with a pine tree, a five-pointed star, and a fish—symbolic elements that reflect Maine’s natural environment and resources. Surrounding the shield are inscriptions that read “YORK COUNTY • FIRST COUNTY IN MAINE” and “1636-1936,” along with the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR” curving along the periphery. The design is compact and well-balanced, with crisp elements that reveal the full intent of the engraver when preserved at the MS66 level.
The reverse design depicts Brown’s Garrison, a fortified house built in 1642 by John Brown near what is now Saco, Maine. The building is shown in a rustic style with heavy log construction and peaked roof, symbolizing early colonial fortitude and settlement. Above the structure is the Latin motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and below it are the inscriptions “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “LIBERTY.” The outer rim carries the words “YORK COUNTY TERCENTENARY” in a circular format. The architecture and layout of the reverse design echo the strength and simplicity of early New England life.
All 1936 York Commemorative Half Dollars were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, as indicated by the absence of a mintmark. The total mintage reached 25,015 pieces, including 15 reserved for assay. The coins were sold by the Commission at $1.50 each, a premium intended to raise money for the tercentenary events. The limited mintage and targeted regional interest initially made them a modest success, although they did not generate the mass enthusiasm of some other commemoratives of the era. Many coins were preserved in high grades by collectors, but MS66 examples still represent the upper echelon of quality due to their near-flawless condition.
With a grade of MS66 assigned by PCGS, this coin is certified to be in Gem Mint State, meaning it exhibits brilliant luster, strong strike details, and very few, if any, noticeable contact marks. This level of preservation is uncommon among coins over 85 years old, and it indicates the coin was carefully handled and stored since the time of issue. The devices on both obverse and reverse are sharp and well-defined, with smooth fields and pristine surfaces. The luster is typically frosty and full across the surface, with any natural toning adding to the visual appeal rather than detracting from it.
PCGS, as one of the most respected third-party grading services in the numismatic industry, lends further credibility and market desirability to this certified coin. Collectors can be confident in the accuracy of the grade and the authenticity of the coin. The PCGS holder also provides long-term protection and preserves the coin’s condition from further wear, fingerprints, or environmental damage.
The 1936 York Commemorative Half Dollar is part of what is often referred to as the "Classic Commemorative" series, which spanned from 1892 to 1954. Many of the issues in this series were authorized for specific localities and events, and they offer collectors a fascinating look into American regional history. The York Half Dollar is particularly notable for its straightforward and symmetrical design, its celebration of early American settlement, and its connection to one of the earliest county governments established in the American colonies.
Collectors are drawn to the York Half Dollar for its elegant simplicity, its historical relevance, and its relatively low mintage. MS66 examples are especially desirable due to their high level of preservation and beautiful presentation. As interest in early American history and classic commemoratives continues to grow, coins like this remain solid acquisitions for those building a registry set, a type set, or a collection focused on early U.S. commemorative coinage.
In conclusion, the Certified Commemorative Half Dollar 1936 York MS66 PCGS is a superbly preserved example of a coin that celebrates America’s colonial heritage and regional pride. With its sharp strike, attractive luster, and meaningful designs, it offers collectors an enduring tribute to early New England life and the pioneering spirit of York County. As a gem-quality specimen with strong visual and historical appeal, it holds a prominent place in both numismatic and American commemorative history.