1937-S 50c Boone MS PL

Proof-like surfaces. The 1937 Boone half dollars mark the fourth year of issue for this commemorative type honoring the 200th birth anniversary of American folk hero and explorer Daniel Boone. While born in 1734, the numismatic bicentennial celebration of the man who helped settle Kentucky carried on until 1938. Boone half dollars, designed by Augustus Lukeman, were popular but a few controversies concerning how these coins were distributed made some collectors weary.

In the case of the 1937 Boone half dollars, Philadelphia-mint issues could be purchased individually at $1.60 apiece, but the Denver issue could only be bought as a pair with the Philly half for $7.25. Meanwhile, the S-mint Boone half dollar was sold individually for $5.15. Bear in mind, these prices are for half dollar commemorative coins at a time when the nation was still reeling from the economically devastating effects of the Great Depression.

1937 Boone half dollars are relatively commonplace in the market today and can be easily found in grades ranging from MS63-66. MS67 pieces are scarcer but available. There are a few rare examples in MS68 and higher. The vast majority of these coins feature excellent overall eye appeal, with many pieces boasting nice color and luster.