1986 Houston and Texas 150 Sesquicentennial
Central depiction of General Sam Houston mounted on horseback, pointing forward. The horse is shown in a controlled, forward-stepping pose. Below the figure: “GENERAL SAM HOUSTON”. Peripheral legend: “TEXAS SESQUICENTENNIAL”. “1836” at left, “1986” at right. “ONE TROY OUNCE ★ 999+ FINE SILVER”. Decorative denticle border surrounds the rim.
Central stylized skyline representing Houston, above a large star-shaped motif containing “150.” Below: “AND TEXAS”. Peripheral legend: “HOUSTON HARRIS COUNTY SESQUICENTENNIAL”, “ONE TROY OUNCE ★ 999+ FINE SILVER”. Denticle border matches obverse.
Overview
The 1986 Houston and Texas 150 Sesquicentennial 1 oz Silver Round is a privately issued .999 fine silver commemorative struck during Texas’ 150th anniversary celebration. This issue reflects regional mint production tied to the statewide Sesquicentennial program and represents part of the broader Texas private-mint bullion movement of the mid-1980s.
General Sam Houston on Horseback
The Sam Houston Monument is a monumental equestrian statue located in Hermann Park, honoring Sam Houston, a central figure in Texas history. It is one of Houston’s most recognizable landmarks and a prominent tribute to the city’s namesake. The Sam Houston Monument is a treasured icon of Hermann Park. Dedicated to the man for whom the city was named, the Sam Houston Monument is a must-see for any visitor. Houstonians began fundraising efforts in 1917, and a nation-wide competition was held to determine the best sculptor for the job. In 1924, Enrico Cerracchio (Italian-American, 1880 – 1956,) cast the statue of Houston riding atop his horse, Saracen. Houston’s outstretched right arm points east toward the San Jacinto battleground, where he defeated the Mexican Army in 1836.
Coin Notes
Work-in-Progress – The Sam Houston on horseback statue obverse was common across several rounds with different reverse designs.
