1918 Lincoln-Illinois Centennial. MS-68 (PCGS).；This stunning Superb Gem possesses a pattern of toning that we have encountered in several other fully original examples of the type. The obverse exhibits a halo of crimson-russet rim toning around a center adorned with speckles of the same color, as well as some golden-olive iridescence. Similar shadings are confined to isolated peripheral areas on the reverse. razor sharp in strike with smooth, billowy satin luster. Lovely!<br /><br />The success of the Panama-Pacific International Exposition commemorative coin series helped to reinvigorate interest in issuing commemorative coins. In 1918, the state of Illinois successfully petitioned Congress to authorize the production of a silver half dollar honoring the states centennial. On June 1, 1918, legislation for the production of 100,000 of the coins was passed and the Mint immediately set to designing the coin. In the interest of expediency, two designers were given the task: George T. Morgan tackled the obverse while his new assistant John R. Sinnock worked on the reverse. The resulting coin is often heralded as an artistic achievement and proved to be popular at the outset. The entire authorized amount was struck over the objections of Treasury Secretary William McAdoo. Even with the resultant strong sales, some 30,000 remained unsold. This balance remained in a Springfield, Illinois bank until they were rediscovered during the mandatory bank holiday in March 1933. These coins were made available to the public for a nominal charge and the final remaining coins were placed into circulation. Today, the Lincoln-Illinois commemorative half dollars are readily available thanks to the large mintage and can be found in a wide range of grades. Superb Gem Mint State specimens are decidedly scarce and only a mere handful can claim the very pinnacle of preservation. Essentially unimprovable, few can compare to this significant and impressive specimen.
