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Centennial Coins That Help Support Parks Are Now On Sale

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Published Date

March 30, 2016

Iconic images from the National Park Service’s first century are captured forever in three limited-edition coins from the U.S. Mint, and proceeds raised from selling the coins will help shape the next 100 years through projects and programs.

The National Park Foundation hopes to raise millions of dollars from the gold, silver, and clad coins, which commemorate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. Images on the coins represent the people (John Muir, President Theodore Roosevelt), places (Old Faithful geyser, Half Dome) and values (heritage, stewardship) important to the agency.

The coins went on sale recently at the U.S. Mint’s website and will be available at participating park locations across the National Park System later this year.

“These coins – mementos today and heirlooms tomorrow – celebrate the centennial of the National Park Service,” National Park Service Deputy Director Peggy O’Dell said in a release. “Their purchase will help support vital park programs and contribute to the centennial legacy.”

In addition to being a unique centennial collectible, all coin surcharges – previously reported as $35 for each gold coin, $10 for each silver coin, and $5 for each half-dollar clad coin – are authorized to be paid to the National Park Foundation to support projects that help preserve and protect resources under the stewardship of the National Park Service and promote public enjoyment and appreciation of these resources.

“The coin program is yet another example of a successful public-private partnership that has the ability to make long-lasting and meaningful impacts across our park community as we continue our efforts to protect America’s treasured places, connect people from all backgrounds to them, and inspire the next generation of park stewards,” National Park Foundation President Will Shafroth said in a release.

The coins can be purchased from the U.S. Mint at the following introductory prices, which include the surcharge, until 3 p.m. ET April 25, with regular prices in effect after that.

  • Gold: $395.45 for uncirculated version, $400.45 for proof version (The price for gold coins is subject to change due to variability of pricing on the precious metal markets.)
  • Silver: $44.95 for uncirculated version, $45.95 for proof version
  • Clad: $20.95 for uncirculated version, $21.95 for proof version

There will also be a limited number of coin sets that include all three coins. No more than 15,000 three-coin sets will be produced. There is a household order limit of two units with this set.

Gold obverse

Gold reverse

The gold coin obverse (heads side) features naturalist, writer, and conservationist John Muir and President Theodore Roosevelt with Yosemite National Park's Half Dome in the background. Inscriptions are “LIBERTY,” “2016,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Don Everhart designed and sculpted the obverse.

The gold coin reverse (tails side) features the National Park Service logo, with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “$5.” Everhart also designed and sculpted the reverse.

Silver obverse

Silver reverse

The silver coin obverse features Yellowstone National Park's Old Faithful geyser and a bison, with the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “"NATIONAL PARK SERVICE CENTENNIAL,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “1916,” and “2016.” Joseph Menna designed and sculpted the obverse.

The silver coin reverse depicts a Latina Folklórico dancer and the National Park Service logo, representing the multifaceted cultural experience found in America’s national parks. Inscriptions are “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “$1,” “HERITAGE,” “CULTURE,” and “PRIDE.” The reverse was designed by Chris Costello and sculpted by Jim Licaretz.

Clad obverse

Clad reverse

The clad half dollar obverse features a hiker discovering the majesty of the wilderness and a small child discovering a frog hiding in ferns, celebrating the diversity and breadth of the National Park Service. Inscriptions are “LIBERTY,” “2016,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “1916,” and “NATIONAL PARK SERVICE.” The reverse was designed by Barbara Fox and sculpted by Michael Gaudioso.

The clad half dollar reverse features the National Park Service logo, with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “HALF DOLLAR,” “STEWARDSHIP,” and “RECREATION.” The reverse was designed by Thomas Hipschen and sculpted by Charles L. Vickers.

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