The 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar is a unique and rare coin that holds a significant place in numismatic history. Recently, a plaster model and galvanos for this coin, which had been hidden for 88 years, were discovered. These items, along with important documents, were acquired by professional numismatist Mike Byers from Mike Byers Inc. in Las Vegas, Nevada. The pieces were part of the estate of Howard K. Weinman, a sculptor who created the design for the coin, and they had been kept in his family since his passing in 1976.
The Weinman Family Legacy
Howard K. Weinman: A Sculptor’s Contribution
Howard K. Weinman was the son of Adolph A. Weinman, one of the most renowned American sculptors of his time. Adolph Weinman was famous for designing iconic coins such as the Winged Liberty Head dime and the Walking Liberty half dollar. Howard, following in his father’s footsteps, created the design for the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the founding of Long Island.
Despite his father’s fame, Howard Weinman did not achieve the same level of public recognition, but his work has gained more attention in recent years due to the discovery of these long-lost items.
The Role of Robert Weinman in the Family’s Artistic Legacy
Howard’s brother, Robert Weinman, was also a talented sculptor. Robert was well-known for his work in medallic sculpture, earning recognition for his craftsmanship and artistic vision. Robert passed away in 2003 at the age of 88, and the family continued to keep the valuable numismatic materials from Howard’s work safe.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Design | 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar, designed by Howard K. Weinman |
| Purpose of Coin | Commemorates the 300th anniversary of Long Island’s settlement |
| Designer | Howard K. Weinman, son of Adolph A. Weinman (designer of the Winged Liberty Head dime and Walking Liberty half dollar) |
| Discovery | Plaster model and galvanos (metal molds) for the coin, previously unknown to numismatists for 88 years |
| Acquisition | Purchased by professional numismatist Mike Byers from the Weinman family estate |
| Historical Context | Coin was created in 1936 to mark Long Island’s 300th anniversary, part of a series of commemorative coins |
| Significance of Discovery | Rare numismatic items that provide insight into the design process and American numismatic history |
| Impact on Coin Market | The discovery may increase the coin’s value, drawing attention from collectors and museums |
| Legacy | Adds to the artistic and numismatic legacy of the Weinman family and their contribution to American coinage |
| Current Status | Plaster model and galvanos now available to the numismatic community, increasing interest in the coin |
The 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar
A Commemoration of Long Island’s History
The 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar was created to mark the 300th anniversary of the settlement of Long Island. This special coin was designed by Howard K. Weinman, and it was part of a series of commemorative coins issued in the 1930s. The coin features a detailed representation of Long Island’s history, with imagery that symbolizes the rich cultural and historical significance of the region.
The half dollar design was chosen because it was a widely circulated coin at the time, making it a fitting choice for this significant celebration. The coin itself features a detailed portrait of a Native American and a European settler, representing the unity of the two cultures that shaped Long Island’s history.
The Importance of the Plaster Model and Galvanos
The discovery of the plaster model and galvanos (metal molds used for coin production) is significant for numismatics. These items are extremely rare and valuable because they are directly connected to the design process of the coin. In the case of the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar, the acquisition of these objects allows for a deeper understanding of the design evolution and artistic process behind this historic coin.
Before the discovery, the existence of these items had been unknown to most numismatists. The fact that they had been kept in the Weinman family for decades adds to the intrigue of their value in the world of coin collecting.
The Numismatic Significance of the Discovery
A Rare Find for Coin Collectors
For numismatists, the discovery of the plaster model and galvanos is a remarkable event. Coins that are linked to original design materials are highly sought after by collectors, as they provide a direct connection to the creation of the coin. The newly found items from Howard K. Weinman’s work give collectors a chance to own pieces of American history that were previously unknown.
Professional numismatist Mike Byers, known for his expertise in rare coins, acquired the items from the Weinman family. This acquisition is expected to raise the value and interest in the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar, as collectors and museums seek to own these rare artifacts.
The Impact on the Coin Market
The introduction of these items into the market is expected to have a significant impact on the value of the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar. With the discovery of the original design materials, interest in the coin is likely to increase, potentially raising its price at auctions and among collectors. The rarity and historical significance of the pieces add a layer of appeal that may drive demand even further.
Conclusion: Preserving a Piece of American History
The recent discovery of Howard K. Weinman’s plaster model and galvanos for the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary half dollar offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of American coin design. It not only highlights the skill of a lesser-known sculptor, but it also opens a door to exploring the artistic legacy of the Weinman family. With these pieces now in the hands of a professional numismatist, collectors have an exciting opportunity to connect with a long-lost piece of American history.
The discovery has added new life to the coin and has sparked interest among collectors, historians, and numismatists. The historical context, artistic legacy, and rarity of these pieces make them invaluable artifacts that will continue to enrich the numismatic world for years to come.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar?
The 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar was created to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the founding of Long Island. Designed by Howard K. Weinman, it features symbols representing the historical settlement of Long Island. It is part of a series of commemorative coins from the 1930s and holds a unique place in American numismatic history.
2. Who was Howard K. Weinman?
Howard K. Weinman was an American sculptor and the son of Adolph A. Weinman, one of the most famous American sculptors of the 20th century. While his father was renowned for creating iconic coins like the Winged Liberty Head dime and Walking Liberty half dollar, Howard’s design for the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar gained renewed attention due to the recent discovery of the plaster model and galvanos used in the coin’s production.
3. What are galvanos and why are they important?
Galvanos are metal molds used in the coin-making process. They serve as the basis for striking the final coins. The discovery of the galvanos and plaster model for the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar provides numismatists with a rare glimpse into the design and production process of this historical coin.
4. Why was the plaster model and galvanos hidden for so long?
The plaster model and galvanos were kept in the Weinman family’s possession after Howard K. Weinman’s death in 1976. The items were not widely known in the numismatic community until they were recently acquired by professional numismatist Mike Byers. Their long period of obscurity adds to their rarity and value.
5. How will the discovery affect the value of the 1936 Long Island Tercentenary Half Dollar?
The discovery of the plaster model and galvanos is likely to increase the coin’s value, as such items are highly prized by collectors and museums. The original design materials offer a deeper understanding of the coin’s history and production, which could drive up interest and demand in the numismatic market.