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The 1936-P Rhode Island Tercentenary Half Dollar in About Uncirculated (AU) condition is a significant and appealing example of early 20th-century American commemorative coinage. Issued to mark the 300th anniversary of the founding of Providence, Rhode Island in 1636 by Roger Williams, the coin serves not only as a monetary artifact but as a tribute to the principles of religious freedom and civic independence that shaped the early American colonies. The Rhode Island half dollar was one of many commemoratives struck during the 1930s, a decade characterized by a proliferation of such issues, often authorized by Congress and produced in relatively limited numbers for collectors and civic celebrations.
The Rhode Island Tercentenary Half Dollar was authorized by Congress on May 2, 1936, with a maximum authorized mintage of 50,000 coins. All of the coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint, as denoted by the absence of a mintmark. Despite the relatively high authorization, only 50,000 were struck for public distribution, and of these, approximately 15,000 were returned and subsequently melted due to lack of demand, leaving a net mintage of about 35,000 pieces. Issued at a time when commemorative coins were frequently marketed to the public through local commissions, the Rhode Island issue was sold for $1 each, with proceeds supporting tercentenary celebrations and the promotion of state history.
The obverse design of the coin features Roger Williams being welcomed by a Narragansett Indian, a scene symbolizing the founding of Providence. Williams is shown stepping ashore from a canoe, with the Native American extending his right arm in greeting. Behind them, stylized waves and a wooded shoreline complete the composition. The inscription around the border reads “IN GOD WE TRUST – RHODE ISLAND TERCENTENARY – 1636-1936,” with the designer's initials, A.T. for Arthur Graham Carey, tucked discreetly into the design. In About Uncirculated condition, this side of the coin retains most of its original detail, with light high-point wear visible on the figures and the surrounding landscape. The surfaces may show faint rub on the canoe or the Indian's arm, but the major devices remain bold and crisp.
The reverse of the coin features the anchor of hope, which is derived from the official seal of Rhode Island and has been a long-standing state symbol. The anchor is surrounded by a wreath of laurel, and the word “HOPE” appears in large letters above the anchor. Around the edge are the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA – HALF DOLLAR.” The anchor symbolically references both Rhode Island’s maritime heritage and the spiritual optimism that characterized its founding. In AU condition, the reverse remains sharply defined, with full lettering and strong outlines on the anchor and wreath. Slight rub may appear on the highest points of the anchor or laurel leaves, but there is typically no loss of visual appeal, and much of the original mint luster often remains in the protected areas of the fields.
The Rhode Island half dollar was designed jointly by Arthur Graham Carey and John Howard Benson, two artists based in Rhode Island. Their collaboration resulted in a unique and historically resonant design that was praised for its bold imagery and symbolic strength. The canoe landing scene on the obverse stands out among commemoratives for its narrative content and its rare depiction of early Native American-European interaction in a respectful and peaceful context. The reverse’s emphasis on the anchor and the motto “Hope” reinforces the state’s identity and ties the coin thematically to earlier colonial seals and currency.
As part of the boom in commemorative coin issues during the mid-1930s, the Rhode Island half dollar benefited from public enthusiasm for numismatics, but also suffered from market saturation. Many collectors at the time had grown wary of the flood of commemorative coins, and sales for the Rhode Island issue were more modest than anticipated. Nevertheless, the coin was distributed at several official events, including expositions and parades celebrating the tercentenary of Rhode Island’s founding. Collectors who acquired the coins at issue price often preserved them in relatively high grades, leading to the survival of many attractive examples today, including those in About Uncirculated condition.
In terms of physical characteristics, the Rhode Island half dollar was struck in the standard composition for silver commemoratives of the era: 90% silver and 10% copper, with a diameter of 30.6 mm and a weight of 12.5 grams. The reeded edge and solid strike typical of Philadelphia Mint production contribute to the coin’s overall quality. AU examples typically exhibit strong detail and only minimal evidence of handling or wear, making them especially appealing to collectors who prioritize visual integrity over technical perfection. Such coins often display original patina or light toning that adds to their eye appeal and sense of authenticity.
Collectors value the Rhode Island half dollar for several reasons: its low net mintage, distinctive design, historical significance, and place within the broader context of classic commemorative issues. Its subject matter resonates with those interested in colonial American history and early state formation, particularly the unique legacy of Roger Williams and his advocacy for religious liberty and separation of church and state. As a result, this coin finds a home not only in commemorative half dollar sets but also in themed collections relating to early American settlement and statehood.
In About Uncirculated condition, the 1936-P Rhode Island Tercentenary Half Dollar represents an ideal combination of affordability, preservation, and historical charm. While not as expensive as Mint State specimens, AU coins retain nearly all of their design detail and often show vibrant luster, especially around the devices and protected recesses. Minor rub on the highest points does little to detract from the coin’s overall appearance, making it a satisfying acquisition for both novice and advanced collectors. These coins frequently appear in original holders or albums, having been well cared for over the decades since their release.
The 1936 Rhode Island Commemorative Half Dollar in AU condition stands as a well-preserved and meaningful artifact from America’s classic commemorative coinage era. It reflects the spirit of civic celebration, artistic collaboration, and historical reverence that defined the commemorative boom of the 1930s. With its detailed and symbolic imagery, low surviving mintage, and enduring association with one of the nation’s foundational colonies, this coin continues to be admired by collectors seeking a tangible connection to the values and events that shaped early American life. Whether collected as a type, part of a classic commemorative set, or for its artistic and historical significance, it remains a treasured piece of numismatic Americana.