Panama-Pacific Exposition Gold $50
Commemorative Coins
- Year of Issue: 1915
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 63-233
Background
The Panama-Pacific Exposition Gold $50 coin was released in 1915 to commemorate the Panama-Pacific International Exposition. The Exposition was held in San Francisco and celebrated the successful completion of the Panama Canal.
Characteristics
The obverse design of this unique octagonal coin features a profile image of Minerva, the goddess of wisdom, skill, contemplation, spinning, weaving, and agriculture and horticulture.The reverse features an owl, sacred to Minerva and the symbol of wisdom, perched upon a branch of western pine. Dolphins encircle the central field, suggesting the uninterrupted water route made possible by the Panama Canal.
Obverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- FIFTY DOLLARS
- IN GOD WE TRUST
- MCMXV
Reverse Inscriptions
- PANAMA PACIFIC EXPOSITION
- SAN FRANCISCO
- E PLURIBUS UNUM
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
- Designer: Robert Aitken