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The 1936 York Commemorative Half Dollar in Uncirculated condition is a distinguished example of classic American commemorative coinage, struck during a peak period for these historically inspired issues. Authorized by Congress to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the founding of York County, Maine, the coin commemorates the establishment of the first organized local government in what would become the state of Maine. It represents both a local celebration of colonial heritage and a broader acknowledgment of early American self-governance. The York Half Dollar belongs to the series of commemorative coins minted between 1892 and 1954 and is one of several issues from 1936, a year notable for its abundance of commemorative releases.
The initiative for the coin came from the York County Tercentenary Commission, which successfully lobbied Congress for authorization. The commemorative act was passed on June 26, 1936, allowing for a maximum mintage of 30,000 coins. These coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and sold to the public at a premium over face value to help fund the tercentenary celebration. Much like other commemorative issues of the time, the York Half Dollar was sold primarily through local organizations, in this case the Commission itself. Despite its commemorative purpose and artistic design, the public’s response was moderate due to the saturation of commemoratives in the market that year, leading to a relatively limited distribution and a good number of coins being preserved in pristine, Uncirculated condition.
The obverse of the York Half Dollar was designed by Walter H. Rich, a Maine native, and executed by U.S. Mint engraver Margaret Campbell. It features a finely detailed rendition of the York County Seal. At the center of the seal is a shield adorned with a pine tree—a symbol long associated with Maine—alongside a plow, sheaf of wheat, and a fish, representing agriculture, commerce, and natural resources. Above the shield sits a phoenix, signifying rebirth and perseverance, while a scroll beneath it bears the county’s Latin motto: “PAX ET PRUDENTIA,” which translates to “Peace and Prudence.” The words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “HALF DOLLAR,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” surround the seal in raised lettering. In Uncirculated condition, the coin retains sharp detail, allowing the intricate elements of the seal to be admired fully. The high points are well-preserved, and original mint luster is often present across the coin’s fields.
The reverse design is centered on a bold depiction of a colonial stockade, a reference to the early fortified settlements in Maine during the 17th century. This stockade is flanked by a pair of large pine trees, again referencing Maine’s identity and natural environment. The inscription “YORK COUNTY • FIRST COUNTY IN MAINE” circles the top border, while the dual dates “1636–1936” mark the tricentennial being commemorated. The simplicity of the reverse contrasts nicely with the ornate detail of the obverse, giving the coin balance in both theme and composition. On Uncirculated examples, the texture of the log walls and foliage on the trees remains crisp, and no signs of circulation soften the depth of the design.
All 25,015 York Half Dollars—including 15 reserved for assay—were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. As with other commemoratives issued in 1936, the York coin’s relatively low mintage compared to general-circulation coins gives it an enduring level of collectibility. Although the full authorized quantity was minted, many coins were never widely dispersed and found their way into collectors’ hands directly, resulting in a higher-than-usual survival rate in Mint State. This fortunate preservation contributes to the coin’s availability in Uncirculated condition today, though its aesthetic beauty and limited scope have made it a consistent favorite in the classic commemorative series.
The York Half Dollar was released during a time when commemorative coins were increasingly viewed as fundraising tools for local events rather than as national symbols, and while this trend drew criticism from some quarters, the York coin is often exempt from such critique. Its thoughtful design, historical relevance, and strong ties to early American identity give it a sense of legitimacy and purpose beyond mere souvenir status. Furthermore, the coin avoids excessive symbolism or clutter, opting instead for clear iconography relevant to Maine’s colonial roots and the values held by its early settlers, particularly self-governance, agriculture, and fortitude.
In Uncirculated condition, the 1936 York Half Dollar is an attractive coin with strong collector appeal. The surfaces are typically bright, retaining full mint luster and exhibiting minimal marks from handling or contact with other coins. Liberty’s depiction and the features of the county seal on the obverse are sharp, and the log details of the stockade on the reverse remain intact and bold. Coins that have been stored properly over the decades often display vibrant original color with the possibility of light, pleasing toning that enhances the coin’s eye appeal. As a well-preserved specimen, it stands as a testament to early 20th-century coinage quality and artistry.
Collectors of early U.S. commemoratives value the York Half Dollar for its clean design and connection to early colonial history. Unlike some of the more commercially motivated issues of the same period, the York coin maintains a clear narrative purpose and aesthetic cohesion. It fits neatly into both thematic and date-based collections, serving as a highlight for those interested in New England history or the colonial era. Its modest mintage, strong representation in high grades, and stylistic excellence continue to make it an enduring favorite within the 1892–1954 classic commemorative half dollar series.
While not among the rarest or most expensive of the classic commemoratives, the York Half Dollar occupies a respected position due to its solid execution and historical grounding. Its depiction of regional identity, with symbols like the pine tree and stockade, provides a tangible connection to the values and struggles of the first European settlers in what would become the state of Maine. For modern collectors, owning an Uncirculated 1936 York Half Dollar is not just a matter of acquiring a well-made coin, but of preserving a visual narrative of American perseverance, local governance, and early community development.
The 1936 York Commemorative Half Dollar in Uncirculated condition remains a lasting tribute to one of the oldest organized communities in America. It is a coin that successfully marries historical reverence with numismatic elegance. The clarity of its symbolism, the sharpness of its design, and the quality of its preservation make it a key piece in the collection of any serious numismatist focused on U.S. history or classic commemorative issues. As decades pass, the York Half Dollar continues to tell the story of colonial endurance and pride through a beautiful medium of American coinage artistry.