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The Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Robinson, graded as MS64 by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), is a numismatic tribute to the enduring legacy of a true American icon, Jack Roosevelt Robinson. This coin not only celebrates his pioneering achievements in breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball but also stands as a symbol of progress in the fight for civil rights and equality. With a rich history, thoughtful design, and a respected certification, it is a cherished collectible that honors an extraordinary figure and an important era in American history.
The Robinson Half Dollar was issued to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the founding of Salem, Massachusetts. Salem's tricentennial was a fitting occasion to honor the city's historical significance and its role in early American history.
The obverse of the coin features a dignified portrait of Jack Robinson, an iconic athlete who made history by becoming the first African American to play in Major League Baseball when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. His enduring impact on sports and civil rights is commemorated with the inscriptions "ROBINSON COMMEMORATIVE" and "HALF DOLLAR." This side of the coin serves as a tribute to his remarkable achievements and contributions to American society.
Turning to the reverse side, the design showcases an allegorical representation of Liberty, symbolized by a female figure, holding a torch of freedom and a scroll with the word "LIBERTY." The design also features a vignette of a ship, emphasizing Salem's historical connection to maritime trade. The reverse is inscribed with "IN GOD WE TRUST," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," "Salem, Mass.," and the dual dates "1636" and "1936," marking the tricentennial anniversary of the city's founding.
The coin has a diameter of 30.6 millimeters, which is standard for a half dollar coin. This size allows for the intricate details of the design to be prominently displayed, making it an aesthetically pleasing piece.
The Robinson Half Dollar was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, a respected institution responsible for producing a wide range of US coins. The mintage figure for this coin reached 25,021 pieces, reflecting its status as a commemorative coin with limited production.
With a weight of approximately 12.5 grams, the Robinson Half Dollar is a substantial coin. It is composed of a silver alloy, with a silver content of 90% and a copper content of 10%. This composition was typical for US silver coins at the time, offering durability and resistance to wear.
The coin's silver purity of 90% gives it a distinct white and lustrous appearance, characteristic of silver coins from this era. The combination of silver and copper in the alloy also helps protect the coin against tarnishing and wear, preserving its visual appeal.
Graded as MS64 by PCGS, this coin is in excellent condition. MS64 indicates that the coin is in Mint State (uncirculated) condition with minor imperfections. It retains its original luster and exhibits superb eye appeal. Coins with this grade are highly sought after by collectors for their exceptional quality and overall pristine appearance.
A significant fact about Jack Robinson is that his historic debut in Major League Baseball on April 15, 1947, with the Brooklyn Dodgers, marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for civil rights and racial equality in the United States. His exemplary conduct on and off the field helped pave the way for greater opportunities for African Americans in professional sports and beyond.
In conclusion, the Certified Commemorative Half Dollar Robinson, graded as MS64 by PCGS, is a remarkable numismatic tribute to a true American hero and trailblazer. Its design, historical significance, size, minting history, exceptional condition, and the enduring legacy of Jack Robinson make it a cherished addition to coin collections and a testament to the progress of civil rights in America.