1936 Battle of Gettysburg Anniversary Commemorative Half Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1936 Battle of Gettysburg Anniversary Commemorative Half Dollar is a United States commemorative half dollar. Struck in 1936 to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, the bloodiest battle of the Civil War and the turning point of the conflict. Over 50,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing during the three-day engagement. The coin was also connected to the dedication of the Eternal Light Peace Memorial on the battlefield. The obverse features conjoined busts of a Union and Confederate soldier facing left, symbolizing reconciliation between the North and South, while the reverse displays two shields representing the Union and Confederate armies, separated by a double-bladed fasces symbolizing reunion and national strength. Designed by Frank Vittor. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30.6 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. The Gettysburg Half Dollar is one of the most popular classic commemoratives due to its Civil War subject matter. With a mintage of 26,928, it is moderately scarce and is sought after by both coin collectors and Civil War historians.