How to Identify the California Diamond Jubilee Half Dollar

What This Coin Is

Struck only in 1925, the California Diamond Jubilee Half Dollar commemorates the 75th anniversary of California's admission to the Union. It was designed by artist Jo Mora, known for his Western-themed art, and was sold to raise funds for the Diamond Jubilee celebration in San Francisco.

Obverse Design & Inscriptions

The obverse depicts a kneeling "forty-niner" gold prospector panning for gold, with a rifle resting beside him and sun rays radiating in the background. "CALIFORNIA DIAMOND JUBILEE" and the relevant dates appear in the design.

Reverse Design & Inscriptions

The reverse shows a California grizzly bear walking left atop a rock outcrop, echoing the bear on the California state flag. "STATE OF CALIFORNIA" and "HALF DOLLAR" appear in the legend.

Size, Weight, Metal, Edge

Standard half dollar specifications: about 30.6mm in diameter, 12.5 grams, 90% silver, reeded edge.

Mint Marks & Where to Find Them

All examples were struck at the San Francisco Mint and carry an "S" mint mark, fitting for a coin celebrating a California anniversary.

Telling It Apart From Similar Coins

The kneeling prospector and walking grizzly bear are unique to this issue and not shared with any other commemorative half dollar, so it's easy to identify once you recognize the design. The presence of the "S" mint mark on every example is also a useful confirming detail, since this is a one-mint, one-year issue.

Judging Condition at a Glance

Many examples were purchased by collectors and California residents as keepsakes rather than spent, so well-preserved pieces are readily available. Check the prospector's arms, pan, and kneeling posture for wear, and examine the bear's back, legs, and the rock outcrop on the reverse for flattening.

Authenticity Red Flags

Confirm weight (12.5 grams) and diameter (30.6mm), and check for a magnetic reaction, which would indicate a counterfeit. Since every genuine example carries an "S" mint mark, a coin claiming to be this issue without one, or with a mint mark that looks added or re-engraved, should be examined carefully. Watch also for unnaturally bright or cleaned surfaces that can mask actual wear or hairline scratches.