Jaime Hernandez:The 2008-S Proof Half Dollar Bald Eagle Commemorative coins were officially released on January 15, 2008 at 12:00 p.m. (ET). The coins were issued to celebrate their removal from the endangered species list, after remaining in the endangered species list for 35 years.
This was also the first commemorative half dollar produced by the U.S. Mint since 2003.
Obverse: The Obverse of the coin depicts a pair of baby eaglets just several days old on top of a nest. In front of the eaglets lays an un-hatched egg. There are several large leaves and branches keeping the eaglets warm and safe . Above the eaglets is the motto, IN GOD WE TRUST. Above the motto is the word, LIBERTY with a star to the right, and to the right of the star, it displays the date 2008 or the year in which the coins were issued.
Reverse: The reverse of the coin displays a close up of Challenger the Bald Eagle. Behind Challenger is the flag of the United States of America. Above the flag is the name, CHALLENGER. To the left of the flag are the words, E PLURIBUS UNUM. Below Challenger are the words, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA along with the S mint mark. Below the mint mark are the words HALF DOLLAR or the denomination of the coin.
History: Challenger, the bald eagle imaged on the coin is a living representation of the Bald Eagle's succesful Endangered Species Act of 1973. Challenger fell from his nest in 1989 and after having contact with humans, he was no longer able to survive in the wilderness. Challenger has flown at major historic and sporting events and events, such as the World Series, major NFL and the Olympic Games.
Overview: The 2008 Bald eagle commemorative half dollars had a maximum authorized mintage of 750,000 coins between both the uncirculated and proof coins combined. Initially, the U.S. Mint imposed a 100 coin ordering limit per each household.
Public Law: The Bald eagle commemmorative coins were produced under Public Law 108 486, which was signed by former President George Bush on December 23, 2004.
Mint Issue Price: Introductory price for the Uncirculated Half Dollar coins was set at $9.95 each. The introductory price was in effect from January 15, 2008 until February 14, 2008 5:00 p.m (ET). Regular Mint issue price was set at $10.95 each after February 14, 2008 and the coins were last offered by the U.S. Mint on December 12, 2008
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