The US 2009 Half Dollar coin, designed by Gilroy Roberts and Frank Gasparro, marked a significant year as it commemorated the bicentennial of Abraham Lincolns birth. The coin, featuring a portrait of Lincoln on the obverse, symbolized Americas respect for its 16th president during a period of economic turmoil following the 2008 financial crisis.
The 2009 Half Dollar highlighted the nations ongoing political and economic challenges. The design honored Lincolns legacy in the face of the Great Recession, reinforcing themes of resilience and leadership. The coin, minted in clad copper-nickel, continued the U.S. tradition of using durable metals, ensuring its accessibility in daily transactions.