Category Archives: Native Americans on Coins

pilgrim1

Thanksgiving Motifs on Classic Commemoratives

By Dan DuncanPinnacle Rarities ……
The Thanksgiving celebration cues up the holiday season and begins the winding down of another year. The concept of a Thanksgiving predates the English colonies in America, but the ideas and themes we attribute to the celebration are rooted in several of our early settlements. Our version of the holiday dates back to the 17th century and can be traced back to two celebrations: one from 1619 in Charles City, Virginia, and one from 1620 in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Three hundred years ago the celebration was a religious one that featured praise to God, some fasting, and an appreciation for the year’s harvest and the bounty produced.

As a society, we’ve moved away from being mainly agricultural, and our nation has moved along those lines. Modern festivities generally feature a feast with a gathering of family and friends.

Thanksgiving is not uniquely American, and similar holidays are observed in a number of other countries; Canada, for example, celebrates Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October. But our version became a national holiday with a fixed date declared by Congress in 1941. Today, the popularized story is one where the Pilgrims (or Puritans) came together with the local Native Americans. This exchange is a glamorized account of a real event, of which there are several accounts and records. One is that it stems from the Wampanoag making an offer to the settlers in exchange for defense from their rivals the Narragansett. The settlers pledged their aid and accepted food and supplies. The two groups then celebrated the collaboration with a feast. Another comes from the Narragansett’s aid given to Roger Williams after his forced departure from the Massachusetts Bay Colony and in defense from attack that their settlements came under during King Phillip’s War (1675-1678). The series of battles and the results of encounters speak in contrast to this peaceful exchange.

The true lines of historical events are extremely blurred here. And the story of the first Thanksgiving feast is an obviously romanticized version of certain factual events. The relationship between the European settlers and the Native Americans was not a pretty one, yet it wasn’t all oppression and disease.

So on a lighter note, as we settle in to give thanks for our blessings, here are a few classic commemoratives that portray the colorful relationships in a pleasing light. The following coins depict motifs that are “Thanksgiving-centric” and show early meetings of the settlers and frontiersmen with the Native Americans.

1920 and 1921 Pilgrim Tercentenary – The Pilgrim displayed on the obverse of this early classic commem is the quintessential Thanksgiving motif. This coin commemorates the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock and coincides with one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in 1620 in Plymouth, MA.

1936 Rhode Island – The obverse depicts an image of a Pilgrim (namely Roger Williams) arriving in the New England colonies being greeted by a native. The Williams Landing is portrayed in various artworks and accounts. The tribe that received Roger Williams was the Narragansett. This is the tribe from which verbal history says settlers swore to protect the Wampanoag. The Narragansett eventually helped Williams after his banishment from the colony. The images pictured on this coin are arguably the most “Thanksgiving-like”.

1921 Missouri Centennial – The reverse features a frontiersman (presumably Daniel Boone) and native chief holding a peace pipe gazing westward. Designed by Robert Aitken and chosen from various sketches, the reverse portrays a fictitious event that was more than a century after the original Thanksgiving celebrations. It illustrates the ongoing relationship between the Indians and the early English settlers.

1935-1939 Arkansas Centennial –There are several examples of Native Americans on coinage from the mid-1930s. The Arkansas Centennial half dollar portrays both an Indian chief and Lady Liberty. The narrative behind this and other depictions of the relationship between the Native Americans and the settlers is a debate for another place. For our purposes here, the coin shows both a Quapaw chief and an allegorical Liberty side by side in unity.

1934-1939 Daniel Boone Bicentennial – Daniel Boone is the epitome of a frontiersman. Captured a couple of times by the Indians, Boone was known as a fierce enemy to the warring tribes he faced. Most famously was the Battle of Blue Licks where Boone’s Kentucky militia fought both native and British forces in 1782. However, the coin shows Boone in peaceful conversation with Blackfish, the chief of the Chillicothe of the Shawnee tribes. While again not truly an early Thanksgiving scene, the coin portrays the relationship as friendly and peaceful.

Other classic commemoratives show frontiersmen or Native Americans in various forms, of course, but I’ll save those for a later date. Many of these coins don’t purposely tackle the Thanksgiving theme, but the concept of cooperative work between the Indians and the early settlers is documented, and the folklore that developed is portrayed in various works of 20th-century numismatics.

The post Thanksgiving Motifs on Classic Commemoratives appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

pilgrim1

Thanksgiving Motifs on Classic Commemorative Coins

The 1921 Missouri half dollar draws from the classic American Thanksgiving motif of settler and native cooperation. Image: CoinWeek / Stack's Bowers.
The 1921 Missouri half dollar draws from the classic American motif of settler and native cooperation. Image: CoinWeek / Stack’s Bowers.

By Dan DuncanRetired, Pinnacle Rarities ……
 

The Thanksgiving celebration cues up the holiday season and begins the winding down of another year. The concept of a Thanksgiving predates the English colonies in America, but the ideas and themes we attribute to the celebration are rooted in several of our early settlements. Our version of the holiday dates back to the 17th century and can be traced back to two celebrations: one from 1619 in Charles City, Virginia, and one from 1620 in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Three hundred years ago the celebration was a religious one that featured praise to God, some fasting, and an appreciation for the year’s harvest and the bounty produced.

As a society, we’ve moved away from being mainly agricultural, and our nation has moved along those lines. Modern festivities generally feature a feast with a gathering of family and friends.

Thanksgiving is not uniquely American, and similar holidays are observed in a number of other countries; Canada, for example, celebrates Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October. But our version became a national holiday with a fixed date declared by Congress in 1941. Today, the popularized story is one where the Pilgrims (or Puritans) came together with the local Native Americans. This exchange is a glamorized account of a real event, of which there are several accounts and records. One is that it stems from the Wampanoag making an offer to the settlers in exchange for defense from their rivals the Narragansett. The settlers pledged their aid and accepted food and supplies. The two groups then celebrated the collaboration with a feast. Another comes from the Narragansett’s aid given to Roger Williams after his forced departure from the Massachusetts Bay Colony and in defense from attack that their settlements came under during King Phillip’s War (1675-1678). The series of battles and the results of encounters speak in contrast to this peaceful exchange.

The true lines of historical events are extremely blurred here. And the story of the first Thanksgiving feast is an obviously romanticized version of certain factual events. The relationship between the European settlers and the Native Americans was not a pretty one, yet it wasn’t all oppression and disease.

So on a lighter note, as we settle in to give thanks for our blessings, here are a few classic commemoratives that portray the colorful relationships in a pleasing light. The following coins depict motifs that are “Thanksgiving-centric” and show early meetings of the settlers and frontiersmen with the Native Americans.

The 1920 and 1921 Pilgrim Tercentenary Half Dollar

1920 and 1921 Pilgrim Tercentenary Commemorative Silver Half Dollars - Thanksgiving-themed coins

The Pilgrim displayed on the obverse of this early classic commemorative half dollar is the quintessential Thanksgiving motif. This coin commemorates the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock and coincides with one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in 1620 in Plymouth, MA.

The 1936 Rhode Island Commemorative Half Dollar

The obverse depicts an image of a Pilgrim (namely Roger Williams) arriving in the New England colonies being greeted by a native. The Williams Landing is portrayed in various artworks and accounts. The tribe that received Roger Williams was the Narragansett. This is the tribe from which verbal history says settlers swore to protect the Wampanoag. The Narragansett eventually helped Williams after his banishment from the colony. The images pictured on this coin are arguably the most “Thanksgiving-like”.

The 1921 Missouri Centennial Commemorative Half Dollar

The reverse features a frontiersman (presumably Daniel Boone) and native chief holding a peace pipe gazing westward. Designed by Robert Aitken and chosen from various sketches, the reverse portrays a fictitious event that was more than a century after the original Thanksgiving celebrations. It illustrates the ongoing relationship between the Indians and the early English settlers.

The 1935-1939 Arkansas Centennial Half Dollar

There are several examples of Native Americans on coinage from the mid-1930s. The Arkansas Centennial half dollar portrays both an Indian chief and Lady Liberty. The narrative behind this and other depictions of the relationship between the Native Americans and the settlers is a debate for another place. For our purposes here, the coin shows both a Quapaw chief and an allegorical Liberty side by side in unity.

The 1934-1939 Daniel Boone Bicentennial Half Dollar

1937 Daniel Boone Commemorative Matte Proof - Thanksgiving themes on U.S. coins

Daniel Boone is the epitome of a frontiersman. Captured a couple of times by the Indians, Boone was known as a fierce enemy to the warring tribes he faced. Most famously was the Battle of Blue Licks where Boone’s Kentucky militia fought both native and British forces in 1782. However, the coin shows Boone in peaceful conversation with Blackfish, the chief of the Chillicothe of the Shawnee tribes. While again not truly an early Thanksgiving scene, the coin portrays the relationship as friendly and peaceful.

Other classic commemoratives show frontiersmen or Native Americans in various forms, of course, but I’ll save those for a later date. Many of these coins don’t purposely tackle the Thanksgiving theme, but the concept of cooperative work between the Indians and the early settlers is documented, and the folklore that developed is portrayed in various works of 20th-century numismatics.

* * *

The post Thanksgiving Motifs on Classic Commemorative Coins appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

1915snickelms67pcgsleg

1915-S Buffalo Nickel : A Collector’s Guide

 

A gem mint 1915-S Buffalo nickel. Image: CoinWeek / David Lawrence Rare Coins.
A gem mint 1915-S Buffalo nickel. Image: CoinWeek / David Lawrence Rare Coins.

1915 was the third year of Buffalo nickel production. It was also the year in which Black Diamond, the North American bison allegedly used by sculptor James Earle Fraser as a model for the nickel’s reverse, died.

This year also saw a dramatic decrease in the San Francisco mintage. While the Philadelphia Mint essentially produced the same quantity as in 1914, and the Denver Mint nearly doubled production, the San Francisco Mint actually reduced production by 57%! This reduced issuance, the fifth smallest of the entire series, is compounded by the fact that coin collecting hadn’t become a widespread hobby by 1915. In fact, it wasn’t until the first coin folders and holders came onto the market in the early 1930s that the number of coin collectors began increasing dramatically. This delay between the 1915-S’s production and the expansion of coin collecting in the U.S. meant that the majority of the already small issuance was subjected to over a decade of wear. Due to the coin’s design, this means that a large number of pieces had lost their dates.

Despite being a relatively well-struck issuance, a number of examples suffer from either weak strikes or extremely worn dies, or both.

What is the 1915-S Buffalo Nickel Worth?

As the fifth smallest mintage of the series, the 1915-S Nickel’s rarity is reflected in the type’s price, especially in high grades.

1915-S nickel graded MS67 by PCGS and sold by Legend Rare Coin Auctions in 12/19 for $55,812.50.
1915-S nickel graded MS67 by PCGS and sold by Legend Rare Coin Auctions in 12/19 for $55,812.50.

For example, one of the seven known MS 67s that have been graded by either PCGS or NGC sold for $37,200 in 2021 by Heritage Auctions and $55,812.50 in 2019 by Legend Rare Coin Auctions. This piece boasts spectacular iridescent toning and is practically flawless. While there is some slight weakness along the obverse legend “LIBERTY”, this is a particularly fine example of the type. As examples in this grade rarely come onto the open market, this coin holds the auction record for the type.

At one grade lower, the price drops dramatically, even though the population does not grow too dramatically. In fact, only 76 MS 66 and MS 66+ examples are known, which is nowhere near enough to meet the present demand. When they come to auction a couple of times a year, this grade commands a price fluctuating between $5,000 and $9,500. However, eBay sales can sink as low as $3,000. Collectors should note that the eBay sales records for $1,100 and $1,099 on May 2019 and July 2020 listed in the PCGS Coinfacts auction records database are actually for 1915-S Pan Pacific gold dollars.

For the roughly 30% of the population that ranges in grade from Fine to Extra-Fine, the prices are much more reasonable for the everyday collector. This is despite the fact that the 1915-S is one of the most expensive types of the series in low grade. On the low end of this range sit examples that sell for as little as $130, and examples on the high end sell for as much as $450. The lowest condition datable examples sell for between $30 and $40.

As always, undated buffalo nickels are worth roughly $1.

Design

Obverse:

The obverse of the 1915-S Buffalo or Indian Head nickel features an oversized bust of a Native American warrior. Unlike the later Sacagawea dollar, this design was not based on a single model or historical figure. Instead, sculptor James Earle Fraser created a composite image of three well-known men: Chief Iron Tail of the SiouxBig Tree of the Kiowa, and Two Moons of the Cheyenne. This composite man wears two feathers woven into his hair and a braid running down the side of his head. The date (1915) is superimposed over the truncation of the bust, and the legend LIBERTY is off to the side at 2 o’clock on the rim.

Reverse:

The central motif on the reverse was supposedly based on the buffalo named Black Diamond that lived at the New York Central Park Zoological Garden. Standard types display all of the animal’s four legs. The buffalo is standing on a small strip of land, below which is the denomination (FIVE CENTS). Arcing above the animal’s back around the rim is the legend UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is squeezed between “AMERICA” and the animal’s back. As this type was struck at the San Francisco Mint, the “S” mintmark at the bottom of the design under the denomination.

Intriguingly, this design does not include the national motto IN GOD WE TRUST. This was due to United States Mint Director George Roberts informing Fraser that “the motto, ‘In God We Trust’, is not required upon this coin” (Burdette).

Edge:

The edge of the 1915-S Indian Head (Buffalo) nickel is plain or smooth, without reeding or edge lettering.

Designer

An American sculptor, James Earle Fraser was active during the first half of the 20th century. Born in Minnesota, Fraser attended the Art Institute of Chicago and displayed some of his earliest artwork at the 1893 World’s Columbian and 1915 Panama Pacific Expositions, including his piece entitled End of the Trail. A large portion of his work centered around Native American themes and is embodied in his 1913 Indian Head nickel design.

Coin Specifications

Country:  USA
Year Of Issue:  1915
Denomination:  Five Cents (USD)
Mint Mark:  S (San Francisco)
Mintage: 1,505,000
Alloy:  75% Copper, 25% Nickel
Weight:  5.00 g
Diameter:  21.10 mm
Edge: Plain
OBV Designer  James Earle Fraser
REV Designer  James Earle Fraser
Quality: Business Strike

 

* * *

Sources

Burdette, Roger W. Renaissance of American Coinage: 1909–1915. (2007)

The post 1915-S Buffalo Nickel : A Collector’s Guide appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

U.S. Mint to Begin Shipping 2023 Maria Tallchief Quarters

By CoinWeek …. On October 23, the Philadelphia and Denver facilities of the United States Mint will begin distributing the fifth 2023 coin in the American Women Quarters Program commemorating Maria Tallchief. Born in 1925, she was one of if not the first major prima ballerina from the United States. “The fifth coin of the […]

The post U.S. Mint to Begin Shipping 2023 Maria Tallchief Quarters appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Collecting the Native American Dollar

By Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez for PCGS …… The Native American Dollar series was first released by the United States Mint in 2009 and honors the lives and achievements of America’s diverse indigenous peoples. The series was authorized in 2007 by the Native American $1 Coin Act (PDF available here), which requires the coins to carry “images […]

The post Collecting the Native American Dollar appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States 1931-S Buffalo Nickel

Nickel production at the San Francisco Mint fell to 1.2 million coins in 1931, marking the lowest output of the denomination since 1926 and the second lowest S-mint nickel mintage over the course of the entire series. That number could have been much lower. In January 1931, San Francisco produced 194,000 Buffalo nickels – none […]

The post United States 1931-S Buffalo Nickel appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

US Mint to Release 2023 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin April 13

The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for the 2023 American Buffalo One Ounce Gold Proof Coin on April 13 at noon EDT. The Mint launched the American Buffalo Coin Program in 2006. The one-ounce coin in this program is the first 24-karat gold Proof coin ever struck by the Mint and is the […]

The post US Mint to Release 2023 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin April 13 appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

2023 American Women Quarters Silver Proof Set Available April 4

The United States Mint 2023 American Women Quarters Silver Proof Set (product code 23WS) will be available for purchase on April 4 at noon EDT. The American Women Quarters Program is a four-year series that celebrates the accomplishments and contributions made by women who have shaped our Nation’s history and helped pave the way for […]

The post 2023 American Women Quarters Silver Proof Set Available April 4 appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

2023 American Women Quarters Proof Set on Sale March 21

The United States Mint 2023 America Women Quarters Proof Set (product code 23WP) will be available for purchase on March 21 at noon EDT. The household order limit is five. Priced at $23.00 USD, the set consists of the five 2023 American Women Quarters with Proof finishes honoring Bessie Coleman – first African American and […]

The post 2023 American Women Quarters Proof Set on Sale March 21 appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

How to Collect the American Gold Buffalo Series

By Tyler Rossi for CoinWeek …..   The American Gold Buffalo program started in an interesting manner when the United States Congress introduced the new gold bullion coin as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005. Not only did the bill lay out the design to be used (a modified version of James […]

The post How to Collect the American Gold Buffalo Series appeared first on CoinWeek: Rare Coin, Currency, and Bullion News for Collectors.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Six Different Types of U.S. Dollar Coins Since 1971

By Bullion Shark LLC …… In the years since silver was removed from our circulating coinage in 1964, there have been multiple attempts to create a dollar coin for commerce that would save taxpayers money since coins last much longer than paper bills. In fact, coins typically last around 15 years, while paper money lasts […]

The post Six Different Types of U.S. Dollar Coins Since 1971 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Announces 2023 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design

On Wednesday, November 9, the United States Mint officially announced the reverse design for the 2023 Native American $1 Coin. The 2023 Native American $1 Coin honors American ballerina Maria Tallchief and American Indians in ballet. Considered to be America’s first prima ballerina, Maria Tallchief broke barriers as a Native American ballerina (Osage Nation) exhibiting […]

The post United States Mint Announces 2023 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States 2000-D Sacagawea Golden Dollar

By 2000, the United States Mint was facing a dramatic upswing in the demand for circulating coinage. Consequently, the Denver Mint installed a series of new modern bulk coin bagging machines to help accommodate the overall increase of over 8.5 billion coins. Officially released into circulation on January 27, 2000, with great fanfare after a […]

The post United States 2000-D Sacagawea Golden Dollar appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Prototype Reverse Cheerios Dollar Sells for Over $8,000 at GreatCollections

On Sunday, September 11, GreatCollections.com offered a very interesting lot consisting of a 2000-P Sacagawea Cheerios Dollar graded MS 68 PCGS and a Cheerios Lincoln Cent graded MS 65 – along with the original Card of Issue. With a limited number of sets distributed, it was an unusual opportunity to purchase a rare pattern type. […]

The post Prototype Reverse Cheerios Dollar Sells for Over $8,000 at GreatCollections appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Announces Designs for 2023 American Women Quarters

The United States Mint is pleased to announce the designs for the second year of the American Women Quarters Program. Authorized by Public Law 116-330, this four-year program features coins with reverse designs emblematic of the accomplishments and contributions of trailblazing American women. Beginning in 2022 and continuing through 2025, the Mint is issuing five […]

The post United States Mint Announces Designs for 2023 American Women Quarters appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

GreatCollections Offering One of Finest Known Proof 1912 Indian Head Quarter Eagles

Currently listed for auction at GreatColle ctions is one of the finest Proof 1912 $2.50 quarter eagle gold coins available. Collectors should be aware of this exciting opportunity to bid on an extreme conditional rarity graded as PR 67+ by PCGS and approved by CAC with a green sticker. While the 1912 Matte Proof finish […]

The post GreatCollections Offering One of Finest Known Proof 1912 Indian Head Quarter Eagles appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Untied States 1929 Indian Head Quarter Eagle

The story of America’s $2.5 gold Indian, also known as the Pratt-Bigelow quarter eagle, is at its core, a story of two presidential cousins. Theodore and Franklin Roosevelt were responsible for the inception and termination of the series. In a 1904 letter, Theodore Roosevelt called 19th-century US coinage “atrocious hideousness” and began his crusade to […]

The post Untied States 1929 Indian Head Quarter Eagle appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee Makes Recommendations for 2024 Dollar Coins

On Tuesday, June 14, 2022, the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) met at United States Mint headquarters in Washington, DC, to review several coin and medal programs. After discussions, the committee made recommendations to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen regarding the 2024 Native American dollar and the 2024 American Innovation dollars for Illinois and Alabama. The […]

The post Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee Makes Recommendations for 2024 Dollar Coins appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Begins Shipping Wilma Mankiller American Women Quarter

The United States Mint has begun shipping the third coin in the American Women Quarters (AWQ) Program. These circulating quarters honoring Wilma Mankiller are manufactured at the Mint facilities in Philadelphia and Denver. Coins featuring additional honorees will begin shipping later this year and through 2025. “It is my honor to present our Nation’s first […]

The post United States Mint Begins Shipping Wilma Mankiller American Women Quarter appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States 2001-S Sacagawea Dollar Proof

With the US Treasury’s stockpile of Susan B. Anthony dollar coins dwindling rapidly, the United States Mint was charged under the United States $1 Coin Act of 1997 to create a new dollar type coin. Accordingly, the Dollar Coin Design Advisory Committee, appointed by Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin, held a public design competition in the […]

The post United States 2001-S Sacagawea Dollar Proof appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

US Mint to Release 2022 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin May 12

The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for the 2022 American Buffalo One Ounce Gold Proof Coin on May 12 at noon EDT. The Mint launched the American Buffalo Coin Program in 2006. The one-ounce coin in this program is the first 24-karat gold Proof coin ever struck by the Mint and is the […]

The post US Mint to Release 2022 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin May 12 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Jeff Garrett: Tips for Collecting Indian Head Quarter Eagles

By Jeff Garrett for Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) …… Collecting a complete set of any series of United States gold coins is a formidable task. Very few accept the challenge, as most series contain several “stoppers” that make completion almost impossible. Consider Saint-Gaudens Double Eagles as an example. The series starts with the 1907 High […]

The post Jeff Garrett: Tips for Collecting Indian Head Quarter Eagles appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

CCAC to Review 2023 American Women Quarters, Native American $1 Coin Designs

The United States Mint announces that the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) will hold a teleconference public meeting April 19, 2022. The purpose of the meeting is to conduct business related to the CCAC’s responsibility to advise the Secretary of the Treasury on themes and designs pertaining to United States coinage. Agenda: Review and discussion […]

The post CCAC to Review 2023 American Women Quarters, Native American $1 Coin Designs appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

2022 United States Mint Proof Set Available April 7

The 2022 United States Mint Proof Set (product code 22RG) will be available for purchase starting on April 7 at noon EDT. This year, the set includes the first five coins in the American Women Quarters Program, the four-year initiative to honor the contributions and achievements of American women to the nation. Priced at $32, […]

The post 2022 United States Mint Proof Set Available April 7 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

US Mint Opened Sales for 2022 Native American $1 Coin Feb. 9

The United States Mint began accepting orders for products containing the 2022 Native American $1 Coin on February 9 at noon EST. The 2022 coin honors Ely S. Parker of the Tonawanda Seneca. Born Ha-sa-no-an-da into a prominent Tonawanda Seneca lineage on Iroquois land in upstate New York, Parker mastered English as a youth and […]

The post US Mint Opened Sales for 2022 Native American $1 Coin Feb. 9 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Meet the Women Who Will Appear on America’s 2022 Quarters

By Chris Bulfinch for CoinWeek ….. The United States Mint will release a new series of circulating commemorative quarters honoring American women notable for their achievements across a wide range of fields in February 2022. The five women who will be honored on the first five quarters in the program–Maya Angelou, Sally Ride, Wilma Mankiller, […]

The post Meet the Women Who Will Appear on America’s 2022 Quarters appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Announces 2022 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design

The United States Mint has officially announced the design for the 2022 Native American $1 Coin. The 2022 Native American $1 Coin will commemorate Ely S. Parker, a U.S. Army officer, engineer, and tribal diplomat, who served as military secretary to Ulysses S. Grant during the U.S. Civil War. When Robert E. Lee surrendered at […]

The post United States Mint Announces 2022 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Thanksgiving Motifs on Classic Commemoratives

By Dan Duncan – Pinnacle Rarities …… The Thanksgiving celebration cues up the holiday season and begins the winding down of another year. The concept of a Thanksgiving predates the English colonies in America, but the ideas and themes we attribute to the celebration are rooted in several of our early settlements. Our version of […]

The post Thanksgiving Motifs on Classic Commemoratives appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Announces Designs for 2022 American Women Quarters

The United States Mint is pleased to announce the official designs for the first five coins in the American Women Quarters Program. Authorized by Public Law 116-330, this four-year program features coins with reverse designs emblematic of the accomplishments and contributions of trailblazing American women. Beginning in 2022 and continuing through 2025, the Mint will […]

The post United States Mint Announces Designs for 2022 American Women Quarters appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

2021 United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set Available September 28

The 2021 United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set will be available for purchase on September 28 at noon (EDT). This year, the set contains two folders with seven coins each—one with coins from the United States Mint at Philadelphia and the other with coins from the United States Mint at Denver. The following coins are […]

The post 2021 United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set Available September 28 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Native American $1 Coin 2021 Products on Sale February 16

The United States Mint will accept orders for product options containing 2021 Native American $1 Coins beginning on February 16 at noon EST. Launched in 2009, the Native American $1 Coins are distinguished by their golden color and rotating reverse designs with annual themes that honor the important contributions made by Indian tribes and individual […]

The post Native American $1 Coin 2021 Products on Sale February 16 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

NGC Certifies First Sacagawea-Presidential Dollar Mule

Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) has certified the first known mule of a Sacagawea Dollar and a Presidential Dollar. This incredible error, which paired a Sacagawea Dollar obverse with a Presidential Dollar reverse, was struck in 2014 at the Denver Mint. It is now graded NGC Mint Error AU 58 with a notation of “Discovery Coin” to recognize […]

The post NGC Certifies First Sacagawea-Presidential Dollar Mule appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Announces Prices for Mayflower 400th Anniversary Coins

The United States Mint is setting prices for the Mayflower 400th Anniversary collector coin products in accordance with the table below: Prices for the Mayflower 400th Anniversary Gold Coins may be found on the 2020 Pricing of Numismatic Gold, Commemorative Gold, Platinum, and Palladium Products Grid here. The pricing grid can vary weekly dependent upon […]

The post United States Mint Announces Prices for Mayflower 400th Anniversary Coins appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

US Mint, Royal Mint Collaborate on Mayflower Anniversary Coins, Medals

The United States Mint and The Royal Mint (United Kingdom) have collaborated to create two limited-edition sets marking the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower voyage. The story of Mayflower is one that connects multiple communities, cultures, and countries. This transatlantic voyage brought 102 Pilgrims and migrants from Europe across the Atlantic and established a new […]

The post US Mint, Royal Mint Collaborate on Mayflower Anniversary Coins, Medals appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

The Indian Head Gold Coins That Caused a Panic Over Germs

By Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez for PCGS …… The Indian Head Quarter Eagle and Half Eagle were struck from 1908 through 1929 as continuations of two gold denominations that trace back to the 1790s. The Indian Head gold coins of $2.50 and $5 face values, designed by noted Boston artist Bela Lyon Pratt, are beautiful on the […]

The post The Indian Head Gold Coins That Caused a Panic Over Germs appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Royal Canadian Mint Recognizes 150th Anniversary of Northwest Territories Among New Collector Coins

True to its commitment to celebrating Canada’s history, cultures, and values, the Royal Canadian Mint has issued a collector coin in honor of the 150th anniversary of the creation of the Northwest Territories. Designed by Inuvialuk artist Myrna Pokiak, this piece of history is also a tribute to the various Indigenous cultures that have shaped […]

The post Royal Canadian Mint Recognizes 150th Anniversary of Northwest Territories Among New Collector Coins appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Keys to Collecting the Buffalo Nickel and Other Nickels

By Bullion Shark LLC …… The five-cent coin was born in the aftermath of the Civil War when copper, silver and gold coinage had been hoarded. After the war there was growing need for circulating coinage not made of a metal that would be hoarded, and nickel fit that bill. But these coins were not […]

The post Keys to Collecting the Buffalo Nickel and Other Nickels appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Glenna Goodacre, Designer of Sacagawea Dollar Coin: In Memoriam

By CoinWeek News Staff …. On Monday, April 13, noted American sculptor Glenna Goodacre passed away of natural causes at her home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She was 80 years old. Goodacre is best known to coin collectors as the designer of the obverse of the Sacagawea/Native American golden dollar coin, which made its […]

The post Glenna Goodacre, Designer of Sacagawea Dollar Coin: In Memoriam appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

2020 American Buffalo One Ounce Gold Proof Coin on Sale April 9

The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for the 2020 American Buffalo One Ounce Gold Proof Coin (product code 20EL) on April 9 at noon EDT. First issued in 2006, the American Buffalo One Ounce Gold Proof Coin was the first 24-karat gold proof coin ever struck by the Mint and is the collector […]

The post 2020 American Buffalo One Ounce Gold Proof Coin on Sale April 9 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

2020 Native American $1 Coin Products on Sale Feb. 12

The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for product options containing the 2020 Native American $1 Coin on February 12 at noon EST. The theme of the coin is Elizabeth Peratrovich and Alaska’s Anti-Discrimination Law. The reverse design features a portrait of Elizabeth Peratrovich, whose advocacy was considered a deciding factor in the passage […]

The post 2020 Native American $1 Coin Products on Sale Feb. 12 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Looking Back on the Sacagawea Dollar 20 Years Later

By Adrian Chacon and Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez for PCGS …… Where have the last two decades years gone? It’s hard to believe that, 20 years ago, the United States Mint was releasing the long-awaited Sacagawea dollar. Hailed by the U.S. Mint and many in the numismatic world as a pioneering coin, the Sacagawea dollar was long-anticipated […]

The post Looking Back on the Sacagawea Dollar 20 Years Later appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Royal Canadian Mint Silver Coin Honors Métis Leader Louis Riel

The Royal Canadian Mint has unveiled a fine silver Special Edition Proof Dollar marking the 175th anniversary of the birth of Louis Riel. In addition to featuring an evocative portrait of the founder of Manitoba, this is the first coin produced by the Mint to be engraved with Michif, the official language of the Métis […]

The post Royal Canadian Mint Silver Coin Honors Métis Leader Louis Riel appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Unveils 2020 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design

On Saturday, October 5, United States Mint Chief Administrative Officer Patrick Hernandez unveiled the reverse design for the 2020 Native American $1 Coin during the Alaska Native Brothers and Alaska Native Sisters Convention at Alaska Pacific University. The theme of the 2020 Native American $1 Coin design is Elizabeth Peratrovich and Alaska’s Anti-Discrimination Law. The […]

The post United States Mint Unveils 2020 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint to Release Special Set Feat. Native American $1 Coin & $1 Note July 24

The United States Mint will open sales for the 2019 Native American $1 Coin & Currency Set (product code 19NR) on July 24 at noon EDT. This unique set pairs one enhanced uncirculated 2019 Native American $1 Coin produced by the United States Mint at Philadelphia and one $1 Series 2017 note produced by the […]

The post United States Mint to Release Special Set Feat. Native American $1 Coin & $1 Note July 24 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

A Man, a Plan, a Coin: The Classic Oregon Trail Commemorative Half Dollar

By Blanchard & Company …… For many, the Oregon Trail evokes thoughts of untouched terrain, the untamed wild, and new beginnings. The reality was much different. Many lost their lives traveling the 2,170 miles spanning the distance of Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon. It is estimated that 20,000 people lie in unmarked graves. The […]

The post A Man, a Plan, a Coin: The Classic Oregon Trail Commemorative Half Dollar appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

The Golden Dollar: Story of the Sacagaweas

By Lianna Spurrier for CoinWeek ….. The dollar coin has never circulated well in America. Even designs that are loved by collectors today, such as the Morgan dollar, struggled to find their way out of contemporaneous storage vaults as consumers simply didn’t want them. The Susan B. Anthony dollar was supposed to fix this problem […]

The post The Golden Dollar: Story of the Sacagaweas appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Opens 2019 Native American $1 Coin Sales February 13

The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for products containing the 2019 Native American $1 Coin on February 13 at noon EST. The coin celebrates the accomplishments of Native Americans in the Space Program. Available options and their prices are below. The 2019 Native American $1 Coin reverse design depicts renowned engineer Mary Golda […]

The post United States Mint Opens 2019 Native American $1 Coin Sales February 13 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint Unveils 2019 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design

The United States Mint officially unveiled the reverse design for the 2019 Native American $1 Coin in the 2018 winter issue of the National Museum of the American Indian’s eponymous quarterly magazine. The 2019 coin design celebrates American Indians in the Space Program. The reverse design depicts renowned engineer Mary Golda Ross writing calculations. Behind […]

The post United States Mint Unveils 2019 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint 2018 American Buffalo 1oz Gold Proof Coin on Sale May 10

The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for the 2018  One Ounce American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin (product code 18EL) on May 10 at noon Eastern Time (ET). The Mint introduced the One Ounce American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin in 2006. It is the first 24-karat gold proof coin ever struck by the Mint […]

The post United States Mint 2018 American Buffalo 1oz Gold Proof Coin on Sale May 10 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

CoinWeek News Wire for March 2, 2018: Elon Musk Cryptoking? Gold Underfoot…

By Coinweek Coin News Wire …. Coin News Wire for March 2, 2018 Current Events 1.) New Jim Thorpe one-dollar coins selling out fast The people of Jim Thorpe were lining up to get the newest coin from the US Mint. The Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank has already sold out of a 3,000-coin shipment it received […]

The post CoinWeek News Wire for March 2, 2018: Elon Musk Cryptoking? Gold Underfoot… appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Jim Thorpe Dollar: 2018 Native American $1 Coin Products on Sale Feb. 15 From U.S. Mint

Sales will open for United States Mint product options featuring the 2018 Native American $1 Coin on February 15 at noon Eastern Time (ET). Since 2009, this $1 coin has displayed an annually-changing reverse design that recognizes the important contributions made by Indian tribes and individual Native Americans to the history and development of the […]

The post Jim Thorpe Dollar: 2018 Native American $1 Coin Products on Sale Feb. 15 From U.S. Mint appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

United States Mint – February Product Release Slate Analyzed

By CoinWeek …. In 2018, the Mint is trying something different. At last year’s forum, representatives of the United States Mint revealed a far more complete 2018 product rollout schedule than they had provided in the past. They did so in order to help dealers and collectors make more informed purchasing decisions and better allocate […]

The post United States Mint – February Product Release Slate Analyzed appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Annual Classics Return as Royal Canadian Mint Launches 1st Numismatic Catalog of 2018

A new year signals the return of collector coins which have long been the foundation of the Royal Canadian Mint’s numismatic program. These include perennial favorites such as the Proof Silver Dollar and Fine Silver Proof Set, $100 and $200 gold coins, as well as the Classic Canadian Uncirculated Set. All of these new collectibles […]

The post Annual Classics Return as Royal Canadian Mint Launches 1st Numismatic Catalog of 2018 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

U.S. Mint Releases 2018 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design

The United States Mint officially announced the reverse design of the 2018 Native American $1 Coin. The coin’s theme pays homage to sports legend Jim Thorpe. The 2018 reverse design depicts Jim Thorpe, with the foreground elements highlighting his football and Olympic achievements. Inscriptions are “JIM THORPE,” “WA-THO-HUK” (Thorpe’s Sac and Fox tribe name), “UNITED […]

The post U.S. Mint Releases 2018 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

U.S. Mint Reveals New Coin Product Release Schedule for Spring 2018

By CoinWeek News Staff …. At the United States Mint Forum, held at Mint headquarters in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, October 17, Numismatic Program Manager Ann Bailey delivered a presentation on next year’s upcoming numismatic product releases, at the end of which she promised that the first quarter schedule would appear on the Mint’s website […]

The post U.S. Mint Reveals New Coin Product Release Schedule for Spring 2018 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

CCAC Recommends Designs for Apollo 11, Native American $1, Congressional Gold Medals

By Hubert Walker for CoinWeek …. At yesterday’s marathon meeting of the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC), design candidate portfolios for several programs were reviewed and discussed, with committee recommendations to the Secretary of the Treasury ultimately being made. The meeting’s agenda included designs for the 2019 and 2020 Native American $1 coins, the Filipino […]

The post CCAC Recommends Designs for Apollo 11, Native American $1, Congressional Gold Medals appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Candidate Designs Revealed for Upcoming Commemorative Coins, Gold Medals

By CoinWeek News Staff …. The United States Mint recently revealed design candidates for a number of coin and medal programs, including the 2019 and 2020 Native American $1 coins, the 2019 Apollo 11 50th Anniversary commemorative coin program, and the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and Filipino Veterans of World War 2 Congressional Gold […]

The post Candidate Designs Revealed for Upcoming Commemorative Coins, Gold Medals appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Modern US Coins – CCAC to Discuss Apollo 11 Commem, Filipino Veterans Medal Designs June 21

A possible 2018 American Liberty 24-karat gold fractional coin also on the meeting’s agenda Pursuant to United States Code, Title 31, section 5135(b)(8)(C), the United States Mint announces the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) public meeting scheduled for June 21, 2017. Date: June 21, 2017. Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. EST Location: Second Floor […]

The post Modern US Coins – CCAC to Discuss Apollo 11 Commem, Filipino Veterans Medal Designs June 21 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

U.S. Mint Annual Uncirculated Coin Set on Sale May 17

The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for the 2017 United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set® (product code 17RJ) on May 17 at noon Eastern Time (ET). This year’s set consists of 20 coins—one folder of 10 coins from the Philadelphia Mint and one folder of 10 coins from the Denver Mint. Coins in […]

The post U.S. Mint Annual Uncirculated Coin Set on Sale May 17 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Modern US Coins – Coinage of the Obama Era

By Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez for CoinWeek.com …… It’s still unclear how history will ultimately remember the presidency of Barack Obama, who served as the 44th president of the United States from 2009 through 2017. But coin collectors can already honor the historic, two-term former commander-in-chief in their own ways. Over the course of the eight years […]

The post Modern US Coins – Coinage of the Obama Era appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

First 2017 ATB Quarter, Platinum Eagle Bullion Coin Among Upcoming U.S. Mint Products

By CoinWeek News Staff …. The United States Mint recently added several new products to their online schedule for the month of February. First up are rolls and bags for the 2017 Effigy Mounds National Monument America the Beautiful quarter. These Mint products–representing the Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco Mints–will be available for order on […]

The post First 2017 ATB Quarter, Platinum Eagle Bullion Coin Among Upcoming U.S. Mint Products appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

U.S. Mint to Release 2017 Native American $1 Coin Products Jan. 25

The United States Mint will begin accepting orders for product options containing 2017 Native American $1 Coins beginning on January 25 at noon Eastern Time (ET). The 2017 coin honors Sequoyah of the Cherokee Nation, creator of the Cherokee syllabary, or writing system. The reverse (tails) design features a profiled likeness of Sequoyah writing “Sequoyah […]

The post U.S. Mint to Release 2017 Native American $1 Coin Products Jan. 25 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Design Recommendations Considered for 2019-20 Native American $1 Coins

By CoinWeek News Staff ….   The Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC)for the reverse of the 2019 and 2020 Native American $1 coins. Glenna Goodacre’s portrayal of Shoshone maiden and guide Sacagawea, a vital member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition to explore the interior of what is now the continental United States all the […]

The post Design Recommendations Considered for 2019-20 Native American $1 Coins appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

U.S. Mint Releases 2017 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design

On December 1, the United States Mint released the design that will appear on the reverse of the Native American $1 Coin next year. The coin will honor Sequoyah of the Cherokee Nation, creator of the Cherokee language. Designed by Mint Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) Designer Chris Costello and sculpted by Mint Sculptor-Engraver Charles L. […]

The post U.S. Mint Releases 2017 Native American $1 Coin Reverse Design appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Modern Coins: A Lifetime of Change to Our Change

By Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez for CoinWeek …..   Look at the change in your pocket or purse. You’ll notice the coins in circulation look a lot different today than, say, in the mid-1990s. As recently as 1998, the array of current-production circulating coins included the Lincoln Memorial cent, the Jefferson nickel with traditional side-profile obverse bust, […]

The post Modern Coins: A Lifetime of Change to Our Change appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

New Royal Canadian Mint Coins Feature Innovative Celebrations of Nature

Glow-in-the-dark vision of a West Coast deep sea reef and Mint’s first maple leaf-shaped gold coin are among the latest offering of numismatic treasures As the Royal Canadian Mint continues to explore innovative ways to showcase Canada on its finely-crafted coins, it is launching an otherworldly 2 oz. glow-in-the-dark silver coin revealing our hidden seascapes, […]

The post New Royal Canadian Mint Coins Feature Innovative Celebrations of Nature appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

No Order Limits for American $1 Coin, Currency Set as Year Ends

By CoinWeek News Staff…. As of December 1, the United States Mint has removed household order limits for the remaining 2015 American $1 Coin & Currency Sets in its inventory. A limit of five per household had been in place previously since the coin and currency set was first released on August 24. According to […]

The post No Order Limits for American $1 Coin, Currency Set as Year Ends appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

Design Candidates for Upcoming Native American $1 Coins

By CoinWeek News Staff…. The Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) has released candidate designs for the 2017 and 2018 Native American $1 coins. The designs will be reviewed and discussed at the CCAC’s upcoming public meeting, which takes place on Wednesday, October 7, from 10:30am until 4:15pm Eastern Standard Time (EST), and Thursday, October 8, […]

The post Design Candidates for Upcoming Native American $1 Coins appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

2015 U.S. Mint Silver Proof Set Available May 14

The 2015 United States Mint Silver Proof Set (product code SW2) will be available for purchase starting on May 14 at noon Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The set is priced at $53.95 and contains the following 14 coins from the United States Mint at San Francisco: Four Presidential $1 Coins honoring Harry S. Truman, Dwight […]

The post 2015 U.S. Mint Silver Proof Set Available May 14 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek

U.S. Mint to Open Sales for 2015 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin April 9

The United States Mint will accept orders for the 2015 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin (product code PM6) starting April 9 at noon, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). The bureau has priced the coin based on its pricing strategy for numismatic products containing precious metals. Current pricing information is available at catalog.usmint.gov. Orders will be accepted […]

The post U.S. Mint to Open Sales for 2015 American Buffalo Gold Proof Coin April 9 appeared first on CoinWeek.

Continue Reading on CoinWeek