Coins

Coins as Ball Markers

Coins where the first ball markers. They never really disappeared — in fact, many golfers still prefer using a real coin (such as a dime, nickel, or even a foreign or commemorative coin). It’s both traditional and personal, connecting modern players with the sport’s early customs. It’s a small but enduring symbol of sportsmanship and respect in the game.

Early Golf (pre-1900s) No Ball Markers

In golf’s early centuries, there was no such thing as a separate ball marker. When a player’s ball came to rest on the putting green in another player’s line, etiquette required that it be lifted and replaced — but originally, this was done using the head of a small coin, such as a British penny, to note its position. Rules were informal, and marking a ball’s position was simply a matter of practicality and courtesy.

1900s–1950s Standardization and Rule Recognition

As golf matured into a more regulated sport, marking the ball’s position on the green became part of formal etiquette.

• The Rules of Golf (governed by the R&A and later jointly with the USGA) began recognizing the procedure of marking and lifting the ball.
• Coins — typically silver sixpence, nickels, or dimes — were most commonly used by players worldwide.

There were no “official” ball markers; coins or small flat metal discs were simply the most convenient and available tools.

1960s–1970s Introduction of Dedicated Ball Markers

As golf equipment and accessories became more commercialized, manufacturers began producing dedicated golf ball markers:

• These were flat, small discs made of metal or plastic, often featuring logos or designs.
• Magnetic markers were developed later, allowing them to attach to hats or divot tools for convenience.
• The rise of televised golf helped popularize accessories, including markers, as part of a player’s personal gear.

Modern Era — From Practical Tool to Personal Expression

Today, the ball marker serves both a functional and personal role:

• Functional: Allows a player to clean or realign their ball and keeps other players’ putting lines clear.
• Personal: Markers often bear club logos, brand names, tournament symbols, or even coins, medallions, and custom keepsakes — some golfers use lucky coins or tokens.
• The Rules of Golf (Rule 14.1) specifically define how and when a ball may be marked, lifted, and replaced.

1975–1976 Bicentennial Edition

• In celebration of the U.S. Bicentennial, the 1975–76 half dollar featured a dual date (1776–1976) and a special reverse design by Seth G. Huntington showing Independence Hall.
• Both clad and 40% silver versions were minted for circulation.

1980s–2000s Declining Circulation Use

• By the 1980s, half dollars had largely vanished from daily use, remaining primarily a collector’s item.
• Limited mintages continued for circulation until 2001, after which they were mostly issued for collectors.

2014 50th Anniversary Issues

• To commemorate 50 years of the design, the Mint released special editions:
  • Gold Kennedy Half Dollar (99.99% gold)
  • Silver sets featuring high-relief proof and uncirculated finishes
• These honored the coin’s enduring popularity with collectors.

Today

• The Kennedy Half Dollar remains in limited production, primarily for collectors and special sets.
• It continues as a tribute to one of America’s most beloved presidents — a lasting symbol of national pride and remembrance.