Classic Commemoratives (Silver)

Congress authorized the Classic Commemorative series in 1892 to fund the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. These silver half dollars mark the start of a program that lasted until 1954. Various artists designed these coins to celebrate specific historical events, anniversaries, or people. Sculptors like James Earle Fraser and Adolph A. Weinman created some of the most famous designs in the set. The series depicts diverse subjects ranging from the landing of Columbus to the 300th anniversary of the founding of Connecticut. Congress often approved these coins to raise money for private organizations or local committees. The series ended in 1954 because the Treasury Department grew concerned about the proliferation of commemorative issues and the potential for political abuse in the authorization process.