The U.S. Mint has a rich history of producing commemorative coins, many of which have become prized items for collectors. These coins are not just historical artifacts but also highly desirable due to their rarity, limited production runs, and distinctive designs.
Whether you’re a long-time coin enthusiast or a novice collector, here’s a closer look at 10 rare U.S. commemorative coins that can command high prices in today’s market.
1. 1892 Columbian Exposition Half Dollar
The first U.S. commemorative coin ever issued, this half dollar celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. While the coin was minted in both 1892 and 1893, the 1892 version tends to be more valuable.
- Mintage: Around 950,000
- Current Value: $50 to $2,000 (depending on condition)
- Notable Feature: Columbus on the obverse and a ship on the reverse
2. 1928 Hawaiian Sesquicentennial Half Dollar
This rare coin was minted to mark the 150th anniversary of Captain James Cook’s arrival in Hawaii. With a very limited mintage, it’s a gem for collectors.
- Mintage: Only 10,000 coins
- Current Value: $2,000 to $30,000
- Notable Feature: Captain Cook on the obverse, with a Hawaiian warrior on the reverse
3. 1934 Texas Centennial Half Dollar
Issued to honor the 100th anniversary of Texas’s independence from Mexico, this half dollar is known for its detailed design, making it a favorite among collectors.
- Mintage: 61,660 coins over multiple years
- Current Value: $100 to $3,000
- Notable Feature: Features an eagle on the obverse and the Alamo on the reverse
4. 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition $50 Gold Coin
One of the largest and most valuable U.S. commemorative coins, this gold coin was created to celebrate the Panama Canal’s opening. It’s especially prized for its size and gold content.
- Mintage: 483 round coins and 1,509 octagonal coins
- Current Value: $10,000 to $100,000+
- Notable Feature: Its octagonal shape, which is unique among U.S. coins
5. 1926 Oregon Trail Memorial Half Dollar
This coin commemorates the pioneers who ventured westward on the Oregon Trail, and its striking design has made it highly collectible.
- Mintage: 47,955 coins
- Current Value: $150 to $4,000
- Notable Feature: Depicts a covered wagon, symbolizing the pioneer journey
6. 1936 Battle of Gettysburg Half Dollar
Issued for the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, this coin’s low mintage and historical importance have made it a must-have for Civil War enthusiasts.
- Mintage: 26,928 coins
- Current Value: $200 to $4,500
- Notable Feature: Depicts soldiers from both Union and Confederate armies on the obverse
7. 1925 Stone Mountain Memorial Half Dollar
This coin was sold to fund the Stone Mountain Memorial in Georgia and controversially features Confederate generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson.
- Mintage: 1,314,709 coins
- Current Value: $100 to $1,500
- Notable Feature: Depicts two Confederate generals, which has stirred some debate over the years
8. 1900 Lafayette Dollar
Struck to raise funds for a statue of the Marquis de Lafayette in Paris, this is one of the few commemorative silver dollars minted by the U.S.
- Mintage: 36,026 coins
- Current Value: $1,000 to $10,000
- Notable Feature: Depicts both Lafayette and George Washington
9. 1996 Smithsonian Institution 150th Anniversary $5 Gold Coin
This gold coin was minted in honor of the Smithsonian Institution’s 150th anniversary, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
- Mintage: 32,000 coins
- Current Value: $500 to $2,500
- Notable Feature: Features the Smithsonian Castle on the reverse
10. 1937 Antietam Half Dollar
Commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Antietam, this half dollar is significant for its historical context and low mintage.
- Mintage: 18,028 coins
- Current Value: $200 to $5,000
- Notable Feature: Features Civil War generals George McClellan and Robert E. Lee
Rare U.S. Commemorative Coins and Their Values
| Coin Name | Year | Mintage | Current Value Range | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbian Exposition Half Dollar | 1892 | 950,000 | $50 to $2,000 | Columbus and a ship |
| Hawaiian Sesquicentennial Half Dollar | 1928 | 10,000 | $2,000 to $30,000 | Captain Cook and a Hawaiian warrior |
| Texas Centennial Half Dollar | 1934 | 61,660 | $100 to $3,000 | Eagle and the Alamo |
| Panama-Pacific Exposition $50 Gold Coin | 1915 | 1,992 | $10,000 to $100,000+ | Unique octagonal shape |
| Oregon Trail Memorial Half Dollar | 1926 | 47,955 | $150 to $4,000 | Covered wagon |
| Battle of Gettysburg Half Dollar | 1936 | 26,928 | $200 to $4,500 | Union and Confederate soldiers |
| Stone Mountain Memorial Half Dollar | 1925 | 1,314,709 | $100 to $1,500 | Confederate generals Robert E. Lee and Jackson |
| Lafayette Dollar | 1900 | 36,026 | $1,000 to $10,000 | Lafayette and George Washington |
| Smithsonian 150th Anniversary $5 Gold | 1996 | 32,000 | $500 to $2,500 | Smithsonian Castle |
| Antietam Half Dollar | 1937 | 18,028 | $200 to $5,000 | Generals McClellan and Lee |
Why Are These Coins So Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the value of these commemorative coins, including their rarity, historical significance, and unique designs. Coins that were minted in limited numbers or commemorate key historical events tend to be more valuable. Additionally, a coin’s grade and condition can greatly affect its market price, with well-preserved examples fetching the highest values.
How to Preserve and Protect Your Commemorative Coins
Proper care is essential for maintaining the value of your commemorative coins. Store them in a dry, stable environment and use protective cases to guard against scratches or tarnish. Never attempt to clean a coin, as doing so can significantly decrease its value.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can protect and perhaps even enhance the value of your rare U.S. commemorative coins over time.
