The World War II 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coins Act (Pub. L.102–414) authorized the production of three coins, a clad half dollar, a silver dollar, and a gold half eagle. Congress authorized the coins to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the United States’ involvement in World War II. The act allowed the coins to be struck in both proof and uncirculated finishes.[1] Released on May 28, 1993, the coins feature the dual date “1991-1995”, which represents the 50th anniversary of American involvement in the war from 1941 to 1945.
Designs
Half Dollar
World War II 50th Anniversary half dollar obverse (left) and reverse (right)
The obverse of the World War II 50th Anniversary commemorative half dollar, designed by George Klauba, features the faces of three U.S. service personnel superimposed upon the "V" for victory symbol at center, beneath a B-17 bomber with five stars above the bomber at the top. The reverse of the coin, designed by Bill J. Leftwich, features an American serviceman on the beach of a Pacific island while a landing craft, a ship, and a fighter plane appear in the background.[2]
Dollar
World War II 50th Anniversary silver dollar obverse (left) and reverse (right)
World War II 50 Anniversary gold half eagle obverse (left) and reverse (right)
The obverse of the World War II 50th Anniversary half eagle, designed by Charles J. Madsen, features an American serviceman with his rifle and arm raised celebrating victory. The reverse of the coin, designed by Edward Southworth Fisher, features "V" for victory at the center of the coin, with the Morse code cryptic for the letter "V" superimposed along laurel leaves.[4]
