-
Inventory:
OUT OF STOCK
- Product ID: 55725
Checkout
The Certified Commemorative Half Dollar San Diego 1936-D Uncirculated (UNC) is a shining example of America’s rich tradition of classic commemorative coins, struck during a period when the U.S. Mint issued numerous special half dollars to honor local and national milestones. Authorized by Congress, the San Diego Half Dollar was minted to celebrate the California Pacific International Exposition, held in San Diego in both 1935 and 1936. These expositions were significant cultural events, showcasing the growth, industry, and spirit of the American West and drawing visitors from across the nation. The 1936-D issue, struck at the Denver Mint, is particularly sought after by collectors, especially when certified in uncirculated condition, as it represents both a beautifully designed silver coin and a tangible connection to a celebrated historical fair.
The design of the San Diego Half Dollar was created by sculptor Robert Aitken, a respected artist in the numismatic world who had previously designed other U.S. commemorative coins, including the Panama-Pacific Exposition $50 gold pieces. The obverse of the San Diego Half Dollar features a stunning depiction of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and war, seated confidently with a spear and shield, symbols of strength and protection. To her left is a California grizzly bear, emblematic of the state’s wildlife and strength, while the California state seal is represented as part of her shield. Above her is the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” with “LIBERTY” arched across the top and “IN GOD WE TRUST” at the bottom. The reverse presents the stately bell tower and façade of the California Tower and Chapel of St. Francis, architectural landmarks from Balboa Park in San Diego. Surrounding this image is the legend “CALIFORNIA PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL EXPOSITION,” with the denomination “HALF DOLLAR” placed at the bottom. The design successfully blends classical motifs with regional pride, creating a coin that is both elegant and historically meaningful.
The 1936-D San Diego Half Dollar was struck at the Denver Mint, which was established in 1906 to serve the growing needs of the western United States. Identified by the “D” mintmark located on the reverse near the base of the tower, this issue complements the 1935 and 1936 Philadelphia issues, providing collectors with a set that spans both years and mints of the exposition. The coin was produced in the standard composition for U.S. silver half dollars of the time: 90% silver and 10% copper, with a diameter of 30.6 mm and a weight of 12.5 grams. While the Philadelphia issues saw larger production, the Denver-minted 1936-D had a mintage of only 30,000 coins, making it scarcer and especially desirable among collectors who value lower-mintage commemorative pieces.
Certified examples of the 1936-D San Diego Half Dollar in Uncirculated (UNC) condition represent coins that have survived the decades without entering circulation, retaining their original mint luster and sharp strike. UNC coins are graded at MS60 or higher by major certification services such as NGC or PCGS, with higher grades like MS63, MS64, or even MS65 reflecting increasingly fine preservation, including minimal contact marks, brilliant surfaces, and strong eye appeal. These coins show crisp detail in key areas such as Minerva’s facial features, the texture of the bear’s fur, and the architectural details of the tower on the reverse. Certified coins offer collectors assurance of authenticity and condition, providing a foundation of trust and transparency when purchasing or selling these classic commemoratives.
The visual appeal of the 1936-D San Diego Half Dollar in UNC condition is considerable. The coin’s frosty or satiny mint surfaces shimmer under light, accentuating the intricate artistry of Aitken’s design. Many certified uncirculated pieces display attractive original toning, which can range from light gold and silver hues to more vivid blues and purples, enhancing the coin’s eye appeal and individuality. Collectors especially prize pieces with clean fields, sharply struck devices, and a strong presence of original luster, as these attributes elevate a coin’s desirability and market value. The combination of low mintage, artistic merit, and well-preserved surfaces makes this coin a standout within the commemorative series.
Historically, the 1936-D San Diego Half Dollar reflects the enthusiasm and optimism of interwar America, a time when fairs and expositions played a significant role in promoting regional achievements, technological progress, and cultural pride. The California Pacific International Exposition aimed to bolster San Diego’s economy and reputation during the Great Depression, drawing tourists and creating a sense of civic celebration. Commemorative coins like the San Diego Half Dollar were authorized by Congress to help finance these events and serve as enduring souvenirs, connecting holders directly to the excitement and memory of these grand expositions. Today, these coins are valued not only for their silver content but also for the story they tell about America’s cultural landscape during the 1930s.
For collectors, owning a certified uncirculated 1936-D San Diego Half Dollar offers both historical connection and numismatic reward. It allows one to appreciate the skill of early 20th-century American medallic art, the craftsmanship of the Denver Mint, and the lasting legacy of America’s classic commemorative coin era. Whether acquired as part of a complete commemorative set, a collection focused on exposition-themed coins, or as a beautiful standalone piece, the 1936-D San Diego Half Dollar continues to hold its place as one of the most visually striking and historically rich coins in U.S. numismatics. Its combination of artistry, scarcity, and certified preservation ensures its status as a timeless treasure for any collector or enthusiast of American silver coinage.