Countdown to America's 250th Anniversary 
James Earle Fraser
Obverse
Oregon Trail Memorial Half Dollar
1926 Oregon Trail Memorial Commemorative Silver Half Dollar Obverse
1926 Oregon Trail Memorial Commemorative Silver Half Dollar Reverse
Background
The Oregon Trail Memorial Half Dollar was first released in 1926 to commemorate those who had traveled west on the trail during the mid 1800s. It was later minted again in 1928, from 1933-34, and finally from 1936-39.
The 1933 issue of this coin was the first commemorative coin struck at the Denver Mint.
Recipient Organization
The legislation stated: "That the coins herein authorized shall be issued only upon request of the executive committee of the Oregon Trail Memorial Association, Incorporated, a corporation organized under the laws of the State of New York; and upon payment by such executive committee, for and on behalf of the Oregon Trail Memorial Association, Incorporated, of the par value of such coins, it shall be permissible for the said Oregon Trail Memorial Association, Incorporated, to obtain such coins upon said payment, all at one time or at separate times, and in separate amounts, as it may determine."
Characteristics
The obverse design features an old-time Conestoga wagon drawn by oxen over the brow of a hill and toward the setting sun.
The reverse features a full-length image of an Indian with headdress, blanket, and bow. His left hand is raised as if warning those of the East. In the background is a map of the United States with the Oregon Trail indicated.
Obverse Inscriptions
- IN GOD WE TRUST
- OREGON TRAIL MEMORIAL
- 1926
Reverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- HALF DOLLAR