The 1893 Columbian Exposition Half Dollar is a commemorative coin struck by the United States Mint in 1892 and 1893 to commemorate the World's Columbian Exposition, held in Chicago, Illinois. The coin was designed by Charles E. Barber, the Mint's Chief Engraver at the time.
The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Christopher Columbus, facing left, with the dates "1492" and "1892" on either side of his head. The reverse of the coin features a depiction of the World's Columbian Exposition Administration Building, with the words "World's Columbian Exposition" and "Chicago" above and below the building, respectively.
The 1893 Columbian Exposition Half Dollar was struck in two different compositions: silver and gold. The silver version was made of 90% silver and 10% copper, and it weighed 12.5 grams. The gold version was made of 90% gold and 10% copper, and it weighed 8.359 grams.
The silver version of the coin has a mintage of 5,500,000 coins, while the gold version has a mintage of 2,500,000 coins. The silver version is more common and less valuable than the gold version.
The value of an 1893 Columbian Exposition Half Dollar depends on a number of factors, including the condition of the coin, the type of composition (silver or gold), and the mint mark (either "S" for San Francisco or "P" for Philadelphia).
In general, silver 1893 Columbian Exposition Half Dollars in good condition can be purchased for around $100 to $200. Gold 1893 Columbian Exposition Half Dollars in good condition can be purchased for around $500 to $1,000.
Uncirculated specimens of the coin, especially those with a strong strike and good eye appeal, can command a significant premium over the prices listed above.