1936-D San Diego, California Pacific International Exposition. MS-67+ (PCGS). CAC.A delightful Superb Gem ringed in vivid peripheral toning of reddish-copper, golden-orange and powder blue. Frosty surfaces are expertly preserved and border on pristine. The second of two issues of this type, the 1936-D San Diego half dollar was produced to the extent of 180,000 pieces in the Denver Mint, this mintage figure equal to the number of 1935-S San Diego half dollars returned to the Mint for melting. These two issues were authorized by the Act of May 3, 1935 to commemorate the ideals and purpose of the California-Pacific International Exposition. The actual distribution of the 1936-D is just 30,000 coins, the balance once again melted in the Mint, and this is one of the finest certified available to todays discerning collectors.The California-Pacific International Exposition was held in Balboa Park, San Diego, site of the earlier Panama-Pacific International Exposition of 1915. The former exposition was held to promote San Diego and support its economy, which had suffered considerably during the Great Depression. It was so successful financially during its 1935 run that its gates were opened to the public again in 1936.
