Commems Collection Classic: 1918 Illinois Statehood Centennial - Red Cross Connection

In a previous post, I referenced the county-level distribution model employed by the Illinois Centennial Commission and how the net proceeds of coin sales were to be used to help fund local Centennial celebrations. (Check it out here: 1918 Illinois Statehood Centennial - Revisited.)

Note: The 1918 Illinois Statehood Centennial half dollars were sold for $1.00 each, resulting in up to 50 cents in net proceeds.

Local celebrations were not the only beneficiary of the profits from coin sales, however. Many local communities across the State contributed their proceeds to war relief efforts. The United States ("US") had entered World War I in April 1917, which created a direct connection to the growing need to provide aid to soldiers and civilians impacted by the War, especially in Europe.

The American Red Cross was a leader in the efforts to provide this needed aid. This led to many local Centennial committees donating coin proceeds to the aid organization to support the war relief effort.

The 1918 Illinois Statehood Centennial Half Dollar was a great example of a US commemorative coin having a positive/beneficial impact beyond its legislated celebratory purpose!

1918 Illinois Statehood Centennial Half Dollar



For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more about the Illinois Statehood half dollar, see: Commems Collection