Illinois Centennial 1918 Half Dollar just $15.00 each. The Illinois Centennial half dollar is one of the few real success stories in U. S. commemorative coinage. A superb piece of sculpting, its appeal as a work of art is just as evident today as it was in 1918. Additionally, the money raised from sales of these coins was actually used for the legitimate and honorable purpose that Congress intended, never a certainty with such coin programs. The obverse of the Illinois Centennial half dollar features a right-facing bust of Abraham Lincoln. He is beardless, looking as he did during his Illinois years. This portrait is based on Andrew O’Conner’s full-length statue of Lincoln unveiled at the state capital of Springfield in August of 1918, the same month that the coins were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The inscription CENTENNIAL OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS is arranged around the periphery, while the mottoes IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY appear in the field. Below Lincoln’s bust is the date 1918. The reverse features Illinois’ state seal: A defiant eagle is perched upon a rocky mound and the federal shield, clutching in its beak a banner inscribed with the Illinois motto STATE SOVEREIGNTY NATIONAL UNION. A rising sun is at right, while an olive branch passes behind the shield. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and HALF DOLLAR are arranged peripherally and separated by dots. The border, as on the obverse, is comprised of a bead-and-pellet configuration. Finally, the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM appears above the sun in small letters. These coins are a great symbol of American history! These coins are not an official government issue, but are a privately minted commemorative issue that is clad in 99.9% pure premium silver! These coins are high quality collectables. These coins make a great gift or addition to your collection! Each coin comes in a sealed Mylar Coin flip to protect it. Photos show front and back views. These stunningly beautiful coins are just $15.00 each! Dates and mints available vary. If you want a particular year or mint be sure to check to see what I have available!