Displayed in this case is the finest known NGC graded collection of early United States commemorative coins. These numismatic collectibles have been popular ever since the release of the Columbian Exposition half dollar, the first commemorative coin authorized by Congress, issued in 1892. From that time through 1954, Congress authorized the U.S. Mint to produce coins to strike 157 silver and gold commemoratives for 53 different events, occasions, or individuals. The result was a beautiful series that artfully celebrated American history.

These coins ranged in denomination from 25 cents (issued in 1893 for the Columbian Exposition) to $50 (struck in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific Exposition). However, the half dollar was by far the most common denomination used.

An unusual aspect of U.S. commemorative coins is the appearance of portraits of living Americans, which is not allowed on circulating coinage. Thomas E. Kilby, governor of Alabama during that state's centennial celebration in 1921, was the first living person to appear on a United States coin.

Another first occurred in 1926, when President Calvin Coolidge appeared on a half dollar commemorating the Sesquicentennial of American Independence - the only time a President has been depicted on a coin struck during his presidency.

Although all these commemoratives were legal tender, most were sold to the public at a premium above their face value. They were usually issued to help pay for monuments or celebrations commemorating the events depicted on them and were presented to congress by individuals or commissions through congressional committees.

With few exceptions, these coins never circulated and were rarely seen by the general public. As a result, many specimens look as if they were minted only yesterday.