Booker T. Washington Commemorative Half Dollar Value Guide

The 1946 Booker T. Washington Commemorative Half Dollar holds immense historical significance as the first U.S. coin to feature an African American. Designed by Isaac Scott Hathaway, it honors the legacy of the renowned educator and civil rights leader through a unique 90% silver composition.

What Is Booker T. Washington Commemorative Half Dollar Worth?

The typical price range for Booker T. Washington Commemorative Half Dollar is $17 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The current market price of silver significantly impacts the base bullion value of the 90% silver content.
• The presence of original mint luster and lack of surface abrasions or 'bag marks' can push value toward the $25 range.
• Mint marks from Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco can influence specific collector demand and rarity.
• Overall strike quality, particularly on the high points of the log cabin and portrait, affects the numismatic grade.

How to Identify Booker T. Washington Commemorative Half Dollar?

• Verify the obverse features a portrait of Booker T. Washington facing right, designed by Isaac Scott Hathaway.
• Check the reverse for images of the Hall of Fame at New York University and a log cabin representing Washington's birthplace.
• Confirm the 1946 date and the 'United States of America' and 'Half Dollar' inscriptions.
• Ensure the coin is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper with a diameter of 30.6 mm.

History of Booker T. Washington Commemorative Half Dollar

The Booker T. Washington Memorial Half Dollar was minted from 1946 to 1951, honoring the influential African American educator and civil rights leader. This coin was the first U.S. coin to feature an African American. It was designed by Isaac Scott Hathaway, the first African American to design a U.S. coin.