Exploring the Intriguing Figure on the Half Dollar Coin Before Kennedy’s Inauguration
Who was on the half dollar before Kennedy? This question often piques the interest of numismatists and history enthusiasts alike. The United States half dollar, a coin that has been in circulation since 1794, has seen several notable figures grace its face over the years. Understanding the history behind the coin’s design can provide valuable insights into the nation’s past and the individuals who have shaped it.
The first half dollar minted in 1794 featured the profile of Lady Liberty on the obverse side. Designed by Robert Scot, this image depicted a female figure with flowing hair and a liberty cap on her head. The reverse side of the coin featured an eagle with a shield, surrounded by stars and inscriptions such as “LIBERTY” and “HALF DOL.” This design remained in use until 1804, when it was replaced by a new coin featuring a different portrait of Lady Liberty.
From 1804 to 1839, the half dollar featured a design known as the Capped Bust. This design, created by John Reich, depicted a profile of Lady Liberty wearing a liberty cap and a ribbon inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” The reverse side of the coin featured an eagle with a shield, surrounded by stars and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” This design was replaced in 1839 by the Seated Liberty design.
The Seated Liberty half dollar, minted from 1839 to 1891, is perhaps the most iconic of the designs that featured on the coin before Kennedy. Designed by Christian Gobrecht, this coin depicted Lady Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield with the inscription “LIBERTY” and a liberty cap on her head. The reverse side of the coin featured an eagle with a shield, surrounded by stars and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” This design was widely popular and remained in use for over half a century.
In 1892, the coin was redesigned to feature the profile of Liberty on the obverse side, which was a departure from the seated figure that had been used since 1839. This new design, known as the Standing Liberty, was created by Hermon A. MacNeil. The Standing Liberty half dollar was minted from 1892 to 1947, and it featured a profile of Lady Liberty standing with a shield and an olive branch in her right hand, and a liberty cap on her head. The reverse side of the coin continued to feature the eagle with a shield, surrounded by stars and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
Finally, in 1964, the Kennedy half dollar was introduced in honor of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963. The obverse side of the coin features a profile of Kennedy, designed by Gilroy Roberts, while the reverse side features a depiction of the profile of a standing liberty, designed by Frank Gasparro. The Kennedy half dollar remains in circulation today, making it the longest-running coin design in U.S. history.
Understanding the history of the half dollar and the various figures that have graced its face can provide a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s past and the individuals who have contributed to its development. The half dollar has been a symbol of American currency and history for over two centuries, and its designs have reflected the changing times and values of the nation.
