Countdown to America's 250th Anniversary 
Edward E. Burr
1935 Designer
Arkansas Centennial Half Dollar
1935-1939 Arkansas Centennial Silver Half Dollar Obverse
1936 Arkansas Centennial Silver Half Dollar Obverse
1935 Arkansas Centennial Silver Half Dollar Reverse
1936 Arkansas Centennial Silver Half Dollar Reverse
Background
The Arkansas Centennial Half Dollar was first issued in 1935 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the admission of Arkansas into the Union. It was reissued annually through 1939. Additionally, a 1936 version was issued with a different obverse, showing a portrait of U.S. Senator Joseph Taylor Robinson, who represented the state of Arkansas.
Recipient Organization
The legislation stated: "The coins authorized by this Act shall be issued only to the Arkansas Honorary Centennial Celebration Commission, or its duly authorized agent, in such numbers, and at such times as they shall be requested by such Commission or any such agent, and upon payment to the United States of the face value of such coins."
Characteristics
The 1935-1939 obverse design features the busts of a Quapaw Indian and Lady Liberty with the inscriptions: Liberty, Arkansas Centennial, 1836, and 1936. The 1936 obverse design features a portrait of U.S. Senator Joseph T. Robinson.
The 1935-1939 reverse design features an eagle with wings spread against a background containing rays and stars. The models for this coin were prepared by Emily Bates. The 1936 reverse is the same with the exception of the date.
Obverse Inscriptions
1935-1939 Obverse:
- LIBERTY
- ARKANSAS CENTENNIAL
- 1836
- 1936
1936 Obverse:
- ARKANSAS CENTENNIAL
- 1836-1936
- LIBERTY
- JOSEPH T. ROBINSON
Reverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- ARKANSAS
- HALF DOLLAR
- IN GOD WE TRUST
- E PLURIBUS UUM
- 1935, 1936, 1937, 1938 or 1939