1915-S $50 Panama Pacific Octagonal NGC MS63

Introduction

The 1915-S $50 Panama Pacific Octagonal Gold Coin is one of the most iconic rarities in American numismatics. Struck to commemorate the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco, this octagonal $50 coin blends historical significance with striking artistry. Graded NGC MS63, it retains exceptional eye appeal and sharp details, making it a centerpiece for any serious collector or investor in rare U.S. gold coins.

History

Issued in 1915 by the San Francisco Mint, this coin celebrated the completion of the Panama Canal and the Panama-Pacific International Exposition. Only a limited number were minted, making it extremely rare today. Its octagonal shape distinguishes it from traditional round U.S. coins, symbolizing the event’s forward-looking spirit and innovation. These coins were primarily presented as gifts and awards rather than circulated, contributing to their scarcity and collector appeal.

Design

The obverse features a left-facing bust of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, skill, and agriculture, wearing a crested helmet pushed back to signify peace. The date appears in Roman numerals (MCMXV), surrounded by a long-and-short beaded motif, with stylized dolphins in each corner of the octagonal coin. Legends include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, FIFTY DOLLARS, and IN GOD WE TRUST.
The reverse depicts an owl perched on a Ponderosa Pine with surrounding cones, symbolizing wisdom. The beaded border separates the central design from the legends PANAMA PACIFIC EXPOSITION and FIFTY DOLLARS, with E PLURIBUS UNUM to the right of the owl. The octagonal shape and detailed design make this coin a distinctive work of art and historical significance.