1950-S 50c Booker T. Washington MS PL

The 1950 Booker T. Washington half dollars represent the fifth year of this long-running commemorative type honoring the legendary social reformer and presidential advisor. The BTW half dollar declares Washington rose FROM SLAVE CABIN TO HALL OF FAME, which he effectively did, being born in -- slave cabin in 1856 before rising to greatness as one of the most prominent members of the African American community in the late 19th century and early 20th century. The coin, designed by Isaac Scott Hathaway, itself marks an important numismatic milestone as the first-ever U.S. coin design created by -- black artist.

Most BTW half dollars are known in uncirculated condition, and those minted at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints in 1950 are no exceptions. The vast majority are encountered in the grades of MS62 to MS66, with examples in MS67 quite rare due to the number of evident marks these flat coins accrue.

Obverse Description

The obverse bears the portrait of the honored figure framed by the words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and BOOKER T. WASHINGTON. To the left of the portrait is the date and words HALF DOLLAR. To the right of the portrait is the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM.

Reverse Description

The reverse bears BTW's memorial building centered at the top. Many words appear on the reverse including: BOOKER T. WASHINGTON BIRTHPLACE MEMORIAL * LIBERTY, around the periphery. FROM SLAVE CABIN TO HALL OF FAME appears below the memorial. IN GOD WE TRUST * FRANKLIN COUNTY, VA appear directly below flanking the likeness of the slave cabin.