Daniel Boone Bicentennial Half Dollar Coin History

The Daniel Boone Bicentennial Half Dollar is a distinctive US commemorative coin produced from 1934 to 1938. Its creation was authorized by Congress to mark the 200th anniversary of Daniel Boone's birth and to generate funds for restoring historic sites linked to him in Kentucky.

Designed by Henry Augustus Lukeman, the coin features Daniel Boone on the front. The back displays Boone alongside a Native American (Shawnee Chief Black Fish), a stockade, and a rising sun. While technically legal tender, these coins were made specifically for collectors, not for spending, and are composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.

A notable aspect of its story is the controversy over its distribution. In 1935, a scarce variant with a "small 1934" date on the reverse was issued in limited numbers. C. Frank Dunn, secretary of the Bicentennial Commission, promoted these as rarities, leading to accusations of price manipulation and frustrating many collectors.

Today, the value of a Daniel Boone Bicentennial Half Dollar differs greatly depending on its year, mint location, and physical condition. While more common types in average condition might be worth just above their silver value, rare versions or those in pristine condition can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For instance, a high-grade 1937-D Boone coin once sold for over $10,000.