1996-P Smithsonian Institution 150th Anniversary Commemorative Proof Silver Dollar

Modern Commemorative Coins

The U.S. Mint did not make commemorative coins from 1955-1981, despite repeated calls from the public to do so. In 1982 the Treasury department finally issued it's first commemorative coin since 1954, a silver half dollar honoring the 250th anniversary of George Washington's birth. In the past, the responsiblity for distributing commemorative coins had been placed in the hands of a commission or private individuals. This time, the responsibility fell to the U.S. Mint, and all profits were distributed to the U.S. Government. With the coming of the 1983 and 1984 Los Nageles Omypics, came the opportunity to place a surcharge on each coin, each to the benefit of an organization that was determined by Congress (in this case, the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee). While this change was widely criticized at the time, it is now the standard and the practice continues with very little controversy.

While modern commemorative coins have not seen much appreciation from the public in general, these coins continue be be incredibly significant in their historical, cultural and sentimental value.

Be sure to look at all of our Modern Commemorative Coins and Coin Sets. Chances are you will find one honoring a subject you have a deep affection towards!