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