1892–1893 25 & 50 Cent Isabella-Columbus Commemorative 2-pc Set XF

The First Two Modern U.S. Commemoratives

Here is a remarkable two-coin set featuring an 1893 Isabella Quarter and an 1892–1893 Columbian Half Dollar. Each coin was struck in highly pure 90% fine silver and comes in Extremely Fine (XF) condition. In addition to their intriguing designs, these coins will make a cool addition to your personal collection because they were the first two “modern” commemoratives ever issued by the United States Mint!

Christopher Columbus, Queen Isabella And The World’s Columbian Exposition

Though claims of his “discovering” America may be dubious, there’s no questioning Christopher Columbus’ importance to American history. In August of 1492, Columbus left Spain with the Nina, Pinta and Santa Maria. By mid-October, he had reached “the New World,” which was actually an island in the Bahamas. Introduced by the U.S. Mint as the first official commemorative coinage, the Columbian Half-Dollar made its debut at the 1892 World’s Columbian Exposition. These coins were sold for $1 at the fair, and nearly one million examples were sold in the first year. The following year, the Columbian Exposition Quarter Dollar, featuring Queen Isabella of Spain, was issued. Each coin was struck in highly pure 90% fine silver.

• Struck in 1892 and 1893 (date our choice), The Columbian Half-Dollar features the bust of Columbus designed by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver Charles E. Barber. The reverse shows Columbus’s flagship, Santa Maria, and two globes representing the Old and New Worlds as designed by then Assistant Mint Engraver George T. Morgan.
• The Queen Isabella Quarter—the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman—was made at the request of the World’s Columbian Exposition’s Board of Lady Managers. Queen Isabella was selected because she financed Columbus’ voyage and in doing so helped Spain become a world power. The coin’s reverse features a kneeling female with a distaff and spindle, which were meant to symbolize women’s industry.

Discover new worlds of coin collecting with the 1892–1893 25 & 50 Cent Isabella-Columbus Commemorative Two-Piece Set. The first two modern U.S. commemoratives, these coins pay tribute to the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus discovering America. Order yours now!