Countdown to America's 250th Anniversary 
Charles E. Barber
Chief Engraver
Obverse
Panama-Pacific Exposition Half Dollar
1915 Panama-Pacific Expo Silver Half Dollar Obverse
1915 Panama-Pacific Expo Silver Half Dollar Reverse
Background
The Panama-Pacific Exposition Half Dollar was issued 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. This was the first commemorative coin to carry the motto IN GOD WE TRUST.
Recipient Organization
Proceeds from sales of the coins went to offset the costs of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, held in San Francisco.
Characteristics
The obverse design features Columbia scattering fruits and flowers. She has a cornucopia, or horn of plenty, to signify the boundless resources of the West. In the background is the Golden Gate, illuminated by the rays of setting sun.
The reverse features the Shield of the United States surmounted by the American eagle. The Shield is supported on one side by a branch of oak, the emblem of strength, and on the other side by the olive branch of peace.
Obverse Inscriptions
- PANAMA-PACIFIC EXPOSITION
- 1915
Reverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- HALF DOLLAR
- IN GOD WE TRUST