Quick Coinage Facts
Years Minted: 1991
Mints: Denver & San Francisco
Composition: 0.9167 copper, 0.0833 nickel
Diameter: 30.6 mm
Weight: 11.34 grams
Total Mintage: 172,754 (business), 753,257 (proof)
Edge: reeded
Authority: Public Law 101-332
Introduction
In 1991 there was a total of three different commemorative coin programs but only one would include a half dollar, the 50th Anniversary of Mount Rushmore. It was one of three coins issued, which also included a silver dollar and $5 gold coin.
The obverse was designed by Marcel Jovine and features the Mount Rushmore Memorial and a sunburst (rays). On the outer periphery are the words “LIBERTY” and “MOUNT RUSHMORE”. Located directly below the main design are the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” and year of issue “1991”.
The reverse was designed by T. James Ferrell and features an American Bison (Buffalo) with the phrase “GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY” with the entire design surrounded by a wreath of 50 stars (one for each state). Near the Bison's front foot are the designer's initials “TJF” while to the right of the Bison is the mint mark “S” for San Francisco or “D” for Denver, (note: proof coins were only minted at San Francisco and business strikes were only minted at Denver). An interesting fact for the reverse design was that it was the first U.S. Coin to depict a Bison since the Indian Head nickel ended in 1938.
General Market Notes
As seen by it's mintage totals for both business and proof strikes, finding an affordable example should be no problem.
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