The U.S. Mint is preparing a special platinum coin series that celebrates America’s Charters of Freedom, focusing on significant historical documents like the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. These documents have played a critical role in shaping American democracy. This three-coin Proof American Eagle, Charters of Freedom platinum $100 coin series will be released between 2026 and 2028, coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. The designs for these coins were recently reviewed by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC), reflecting a deep connection with nature and the journey of the United States.
| Year | Coin Focus | Design Theme | Symbolism | Reverse Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Declaration of Independence | Nature-Inspired Progression | Environmental motifs tracing America’s journey through the Declaration | Eagle in flight with olive branch (Peace) |
| 2027 | U.S. Constitution | Allegorical Scenes | Symbolic imagery highlighting the Constitution’s influence on democracy | Eagle in flight with olive branch (Peace) |
| 2028 | Bill of Rights | Quill and Parchment Imagery | Written words emphasizing key principles of the Bill of Rights | Eagle in flight with olive branch (Peace) |
Overview of the Charters of Freedom Coin Series
The Significance of the Coin Series
The Charters of Freedom coin series aims to commemorate the foundational documents that have guided the United States for over 250 years. The coins will serve as a tribute to the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. These documents are housed in the National Archives Museum’s Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom, where their historical importance is honored.
Coin Release Timeline
The coin series will be released over three years, from 2026 to 2028. The first coin will mark the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding. Each year, one coin will be dedicated to one of the key historical documents, starting with the Declaration of Independence in 2026, followed by the Constitution and Bill of Rights in the subsequent years.
Design Elements of the Coin Series
Common Reverse Design
The coins will feature a common reverse design, which was introduced in 2018. This design, created by artist Patricia Lucas-Morris and sculpted by Donald Everhart II, shows an eagle in flight, carrying an olive branch symbolizing peace. This symbolic imagery underscores the nation’s commitment to freedom and democracy.
Proposed Designs and Symbolism
Three sets of proposed designs were submitted for review, each reflecting different themes and ideas:
- Nature-Inspired Symbolism
The first set of designs uses elements from nature to depict America’s journey through the founding documents. By showcasing environmental motifs, the designs highlight the transformational power of these historical charters. - Allegorical Scenes
The second set of designs emphasizes the Charters of Freedom through vivid allegorical imagery. These scenes intertwine the physical documents with symbols representing the values that shaped the nation. - Quill and Parchment Imagery
The third set of designs focuses on the symbolism of a quill and parchment, underscoring the importance of the written word in creating the United States’ democratic system. The use of phrases and handwritten elements brings attention to the key principles of each document.
The Artistic Process
The U.S. Mint’s Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) played a crucial role in developing these designs. Artists submitted their concepts, which were then reviewed by the CCAC and the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. Based on feedback, three artists were invited to revise their designs for the Declaration of Independence coin and to develop concepts for the following coins in the series.
Importance of the Charters of Freedom Series
This coin series not only commemorates the nation’s history but also educates and inspires a deeper appreciation of the values embedded in America’s founding documents. The coins will remind future generations of the significance of these charters and their ongoing role in shaping democracy.
Conclusion
The U.S. Mint’s Charters of Freedom platinum coin series stands as a powerful tribute to the principles and values that have guided the United States through its history. By celebrating the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, this series serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of these documents on American society. The symbolic designs, created by talented artists, bring the story of America’s founding to life, inspiring future generations to reflect on the importance of democracy, liberty, and justice.
FAQs
1. What is the Charters of Freedom coin series?
The Charters of Freedom coin series is a three-coin Proof American Eagle platinum $100 coin collection released by the U.S. Mint between 2026 and 2028. Each coin in the series is dedicated to a major historical document that shaped the United States: the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
2. Why is this coin series being released?
The series is being issued to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, honoring the core principles embedded in the founding documents. These coins serve as a tribute to America’s history and the values that have shaped its democracy.
3. What is the significance of the designs?
Each year’s coin design highlights a different theme inspired by nature, allegorical imagery, or the symbolism of quill and parchment. These themes reflect the ideals of freedom, democracy, and individual rights outlined in America’s foundational documents.
4. Who designed the reverse side of the coins?
The reverse side, which is common to all coins in the series, was designed by Patricia Lucas-Morris, an artist with the U.S. Mint’s Artistic Infusion Program. It features an eagle in flight, carrying an olive branch of peace, sculpted by Donald Everhart II.
5. When will each coin be released?
The coins will be issued over three years, starting with the Declaration of Independence coin in 2026, followed by the Constitution coin in 2027, and concluding with the Bill of Rights coin in 2028.