One of the most common commemorative half dollars from the 1892-1954 era is the 1936 Cleveland half dollar, marking the 100th anniversary of Cleveland's incorporation. This commemorative, designed by Brenda Putnam, depicts on its obverse Moses Cleveland, a politician and soldier from Connecticut who founded the Ohio city of Cleveland in 1796.

Vast numbers of this coin were made in two batches, one struck in July 1936 and the other minted months later February 1937 bearing the 1936 date. While the coins were offered to the public at $1.50 each, many held by coin dealers for years and are common in grades up to Gem. Most offer extraordinary luster and eye appeal.