US Latest Commemorative Coins
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The year was 1982. It marked the 250th birth anniversary of one of America's most important presidents, George Washington. It was also a year of milestone for the world of numismatics because it marked the beginning of the program for Modern Commemorative Coins in the USA. That year, commemorative half-dollar coins were introduced by the US Mint in memory of President Washington. Almost each year since then, modern commemorative coins have been introduced to honor significant National figures, events, institutions and places.
Even though occasionally fluctuating with the subject matter, the acceptance of commemorative coins is rising. At times when the theme is well-loved or famous, the coin sales are high, often reaching its highest mintage. Examples of these are the Benjamin Franklin Commemoratives of 2006 and the American Buffalo Commemoratives of 2001, which were sold out in a comparatively short time. Normally, on the first couple of weeks, the modern commemorative coins and silver commemorative coins are discounted and would later be sold on standard purchase prices for the rest of the selling time, which takes several months to a year.
Over the years, the coins were launched in five different measurements. The first types were half-dollar 90% silver commemorative coins; and later, $1 commemoratives with similar features were also released. Soon after, $10 and $5 gold coins were launched in 90% gold, weighing .4837 ounces and .2418 ounces of gold, respectively. And then eventually, clad half dollars were issued which consists of 8% nickel and 92% copper.
The silver commemorative coins, as well as other commemoratives were not made for general circulation, but may be used as legal tender. The US Mint markets these coins with surcharges to support programs and events associated with the coin. The US Congress has certified the minting of these coins.
Each year, two programs on modern commemorative coins are permitted. Some programs feature multiple coin releases like $5 silver dollars, gold coins and clad half dollars. In 2010, they will feature the commemorative coins for 2010 Boy Scouts Centennial and the 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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