The 1921 Missouri Centennial Half Dollar was struck to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Missouri’s admission to the Union in 1821. Authorized by Congress and designed by Robert Aitken, the coin was issued in two varieties: one with “2★4” above the date to honor Missouri as the 24th state, and one without. The coin’s obverse features a rugged frontiersman in buckskin, rifle in hand, symbolizing the pioneering spirit of the early 19th century. The reverse shows the Missouri state seal, with a grizzly bear and eagle flanking a central shield—an emblem of strength, sovereignty, and unity.

This specimen, certified MS65+ by PCGS, was drawn in tribute to Steven Sawaya’s collection. The rendering captures the coin’s bold relief and rustic charm, emphasizing the muscular stance of the frontiersman and the intricate heraldry of the reverse. The surfaces are depicted with subtle shading to evoke the satiny luster typical of high‑grade examples, while the fields remain clean and undisturbed. The drawing preserves the coin’s sculptural depth and historical gravitas, honoring both the subject and the collector. It also reflects the quiet dignity of Missouri’s centennial moment—a celebration rooted in frontier grit and civic pride.

The Missouri commemorative was struck at the Philadelphia Mint in limited numbers—only 50,000 coins were authorized, and fewer than 30,000 were actually distributed. Of those, just 5,000 bore the “2★4” designation, making them especially prized by specialists. Most coins were sold through the Missouri Centennial Exposition and local banks, with proceeds supporting the state’s centennial celebrations. Today, the issue is admired for its bold design, low mintage, and strong connection to regional history.

Auction records for MS65 and MS66 examples show steady demand, with prices reflecting both condition rarity and collector nostalgia. The coin’s rugged aesthetic and frontier symbolism resonate with those who appreciate early American themes. This MS65+ example, drawn for Steven Sawaya, represents the issue at a level of preservation and presentation that few collectors will encounter. Its combination of technical quality and artistic rendering makes it a standout among classic commemoratives.

The historical resonance of the Missouri Half Dollar lies in its celebration of westward expansion and state pride. Missouri was a gateway to the frontier, and its centennial coin reflects that legacy with unflinching realism. Aitken’s design avoids allegory in favor of direct representation—a rifleman, a seal, a date—making it one of the most grounded and regionally authentic coins of the era. The coin’s visual language speaks to a time when symbolism was rooted in lived experience, not abstraction.

Now part of Steven Sawaya’s collection, this 1921 Missouri Centennial Half Dollar is preserved not only as a certified gem but also as a work of numismatic art. The drawing captures its strength and symbolism, transforming a commemorative issue into a visual tribute to statehood, heritage, and the enduring appeal of American coinage. It stands as both a personal keepsake and a regional monument—an artifact that honors Missouri’s centennial with clarity, conviction, and pride.