Nice original toning on this Columbian Half Dollar Commemorative issued as part of the 1893 Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893.

The Columbian Exposition Commemorative Half Dollar was a special coin issued to commemorate the World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893. The exposition was organized to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas in 1492. The United States Mint produced these commemorative coins to help finance the fair and to celebrate this historic event.

Key features of the Columbian Exposition Commemorative Half Dollar include:

1. Obverse Design: The obverse (front) of the coin features a portrait of Christopher Columbus. The design was created by engraver Charles E. Barber.

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3. Reverse Design: The reverse (back) of the coin varies among different issues, but many feature the Santa Maria, one of Columbus's ships, and a globe representing the New World.

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5. Dates of Issue: The Columbian Exposition Half Dollar was minted in 1892 and 1893.

6. Denominations: The coin has a face value of 50 cents, or half a dollar.

7. Composition: These coins were struck in 90% silver and 10% copper.

8. Mintmarks: Coins were minted at three different locations: Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D mintmark), and San Francisco (S mintmark).

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10. Quantity: The total mintage for the Columbian Exposition Half Dollar was substantial, with millions of coins struck across different mint facilities.

These commemorative coins were sold to the public, and the proceeds helped fund the construction of the Columbian Exposition. Today, collectors value these coins for their historical significance and numismatic appeal.