The product is a highly sought-after 1946 Iowa Centennial Half Dollar coin that is uncirculated and made of 90% silver. Minted in Philadelphia, this commemorative coin celebrates the 100th anniversary of Iowa’s statehood. With its original encapsulation and extremely rare find status, this piece is a valuable collectible for any coin enthusiast or historian interested in US coins from the mid-20th century. MINTAGE: 100,057 MINT: PHILADELPHIA?? LOW MINTAGE ONLY 100,057 – VERY LOW, BEAUTIFUL/NOT BEEN HANDLED. The 1946 Iowa half dollar was initially packaged by. Coating 500 of the 1,000 reserved coins in lacquer for protection, with the rest of the more than 100,000 coins likely distributed by banks to Iowans via a lottery and directly to non-residents. The lacquer was applied specifically to those 500 coins set aside for the state’s sesquicentennial celebration in 1996. Some 1946 Iowa half dollars were coated in a protective lacquer, but this finish is not found on all coins from this mintage. The appearance of the original lacquer coating on these specific coins differs significantly from unlacquered examples. Of the total 100,057 coins minted, 1,000 were set aside for future sales. 500 of these 1,000 reserved coins were coated in lacquer to protect them for sale during the state’s 150th anniversary in 1996. The remaining coins were not individually packaged in the same way. The coin was struck to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Iowa’s statehood. Lottery System for Iowans. Appearance of the original lacquer. The special group of 1,000 half dollars that were lacquered for long-term storage have developed a unique and vibrant toning, or patina, over time. While unlacquered coins may have outstanding white, frosty luster, lacquered examples show a range of vivid colors. The toning on lacquered coins often presents in rich and deep bands of color, including red, green, gold, orange, and violet. This effect is a result of the silver’s reaction with the lacquer and its original packaging during decades of storage. Despite the colorful toning, high-grade lacquered coins still exhibit strong mint frost that “booms through” the color layers. The lacquer was intended to preserve the coin’s brilliant, uncirculated condition. On high-quality specimens, the surface should still be smooth, lustrous, and relatively free of marks, with the lacquer protecting the coin from further damage.