By Hollywood, of all places.

Hi All,

Recieved my 1923-S PCGS MS63 Monroe Doctrine Half Dollar in yesterdays mail. This is another addition to the 50% Is Good Enough set and is also another great example of first generation commemorative half boondoggery.

Obverse shows the conjoined busts of President James Monroe, and Secretary of State, John Qunicy Adams. The reverse depicts two female forms representing North and South America.

The Monroe Doctrine was promulgated President Monroe in 1923 and its purpose was to basically place all of Central and South America under U.S. protection. The reason that John Q. Adams also appeared on the coin is because he actually drafted the Monroe Doctrine. For the 100th Anniversery of the Doctrine, Hollywood film interests sponsored an exposition in Los Angeles that had as its theme, U.S. History. Hmmmm, sounds a little contrived to me.

The reverse design is very interesting in that Chester Beach turned North and South America into you ladies who join hands in "Central America". Although the design is innovative and appealing, the low relief diminishes its artistic impact.

Hope you Enjoy,

Happy Holidays,

Malcolm