1915-S Panama-Pacific Exposition $50. Octagonal. MS-64 (PCGS). Intensely lustrous and matte-like, enhances by swirling die polish lines in the fields throughout. The complexion is a radiant yellow-gold hue and remains undisturbed by any distracting blemishes. Captivating to examine in-hand.Designed by Robert Aitken, the Panama-Pacific $50s display Liberty as Athena wearing her helmet pitched back upon the top of her head in classical fashion thus showing her face. The helmet is adorned with a band of laurel leaves and crested to give her further stature in keeping with historic Greek helmets of ancient period. The upper obverse field has the Motto IN GOD WE TRUST, with the Roman numerals date spanning her shoulder. A band encircles the design in which the balance of the denomination and country name are spelled out. Eight small dolphins swim in the corners of the octagonal shape. Athena is the goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, just warfare, mathematics, strength, strategy, the arts, crafts and skill. Gods and goddesses developed later by the Greeks were of more singular purposes, but Athena being born of Zeus through his aching head, required a great many skills to accomplish her missions and earn the endearing praise of the Greek population.The reverse design continues with the classical theme of a Greek owl perched upon the branch of what appears to be a large pine tree with enormous pine cones and needles surrounding his perch. Matching outer circle with legends of the Exposition and city location, again with eight stylized dolphins in each of the corners of the design. Handsome quality and appealing as these are seldom seen finer and have been highly sought after since their initial release in 1915.
