Commems Collection Classic: 1935 Connecticut Tercentenary - Origin Story

The bill calling for a 1935 Connecticut Tercentenary half dollar was introduced in the House of Representatives during the Second Session of the 73rd Congress by Francis Thomas Maloney (D-CT) - in March 1934. As would be expected, it was immediately referred to the House Committee on Coinage, Weights, and Measures. (Interesting side note: Maloney followed his one term as a US Representative from Connecticut, by being elected to two terms as a Senator from the State.)

The bill was reported favorably by the Committee with a recommendation that it be passed. The Committee did, however, outline certain amendments in their report, including one that raised the proposed mintage from 10,000 to 25,000. It also added language to the bill to ensure the US Government would not bear any costs associated with designing or producing the half dollar.

When taken up by the Whole House, one question was asked by William Doddridge McFarlane (D-TX) who inquired whether the coin was to "cost the Government anything?" Once he was assured that it wouldn't, the amended bill was considered and passed without further discussion. The bill was then sent to the Senate for its consideration.

Once received in the Senate, it was referred to its Committee on Banking and Currency which reported the bill without amendment. The bill was passed by the Senate without debate/discussion and returned to the House.

With no obstacles in front of it, the bill was examined and signed in each chamber, and sent to US President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) for final approval and signature. FDR signed the bill into law on June 21, 1934.

With the signature, after a smooth sail through Congress, the Connecticut Tercentenary half dollar was born!

1935 Connecticut Tercentenary


1936 Connecticut Tercentenary Stamp on First Day Cover



For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more on the history and designs of the Connecticut half dollar, see: Commems Collection.

For a discussion of Connecticut's Official Tercentenary Medal, check out:

- 1935 Connecticut Tercentenary Medal