How to Identify the George Washington 250th Anniversary Half Dollar
A collector's checklist for confirming a 1982 Washington commemorative half dollar — the equestrian obverse, Mount Vernon reverse, silver specs, and mint marks.
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Start with the obverse scene. A genuine George Washington 250th Anniversary Half Dollar shows Washington mounted on a horse and carrying a sword — a full equestrian composition. This immediately separates it from the everyday Washington quarter, which uses only a head-and-shoulders profile. Look for the single date "1982" and lettering naming Washington and the anniversary.
Check the reverse for Mount Vernon. The reverse depicts Washington's home as a long, columned mansion topped by a central dome-like cupola, not an eagle, torch, or allegorical figure. This building is the coin's signature reverse and the "classical architecture with dome and columns" seen in photographs; its presence is a strong confirmation of the type.
Verify the physical specifications. The coin is a standard half dollar: about 30.6 mm in diameter, roughly 12.5 grams, struck in 90% silver with a reeded edge. A calibrated scale and calipers are the best tools; a piece well off in weight, diameter, or edge reeding for a silver half dollar is a warning sign. Silver examples have a bright white tone rather than the coppery edge of a clad coin.
Read the mint mark. Uncirculated coins bear a "D" (Denver) and proof coins bear an "S" (San Francisco); there is no Philadelphia version, and every genuine example is dated 1982. Proofs show mirrored fields and frosted devices and usually come in dark Mint holders, while uncirculated pieces have a satin finish and lighter blue packaging.
Authentication is generally low-risk here because the coin is common and inexpensive, but confirm the specifications anyway and be wary of pieces sold far above silver value. Original Mint packaging and certificates add appeal; for any premium purchase, prefer reputable dealers or third-party grading (PCGS, NGC) over eye appeal alone.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell this from a regular Washington quarter?
The commemorative shows Washington on horseback with a sword and is a half-dollar-sized silver coin dated 1982, with Mount Vernon on the reverse. The quarter is smaller, clad, and uses only a profile bust.
What building is on the reverse?
It is Mount Vernon, Washington's Virginia estate — a long columned mansion with a central cupola. That architecture, rather than an eagle or figure, is a key identifier of the type.
What mint marks and dates should I expect?
Only 1982, with a 'D' on uncirculated coins from Denver and an 'S' on proofs from San Francisco. There is no Philadelphia issue, so any other date or mark is a red flag.
How can I confirm it is silver?
It should weigh about 12.5 grams, measure roughly 30.6 mm, be 90% silver with a reeded edge, and show a uniformly white edge with no copper-colored core.