Modern $5 gold commemorative coins combine the allure of gold with historical and cultural significance, making them highly sought-after by collectors. Since the U.S. Mint introduced modern commemorative coinage in 1982, several $5 gold coins have emerged as collector favorites. Here’s a closer look at five of these exceptional coins that stand out for their beauty, rarity, and historical importance.
1. 1986 Statue of Liberty $5 Gold Coin
Celebrating the centennial of the Statue of Liberty, the 1986 $5 gold coin is a classic among modern commemoratives. Designed by Elizabeth Jones, the coin’s obverse features a striking portrait of Liberty’s torch, symbolizing freedom and hope. The reverse depicts an eagle in flight, holding a laurel branch. With a limited mintage of 651,221, this coin remains popular for its iconic design and historical connection to one of America’s most famous landmarks.
2. 1999 George Washington $5 Gold Coin
The 1999 George Washington $5 gold coin honors the 200th anniversary of Washington’s death. The obverse, designed by sculptor Laura Gardin Fraser, portrays an elegant profile of Washington originally created for a 1932 Washington quarter proposal. The reverse features a perched eagle with arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing strength and peace. With a low mintage of just 41,693 uncirculated coins and 35,546 proofs, it is among the scarcest modern commemoratives.
3. 2006 San Francisco Old Mint $5 Gold Coin
Issued to commemorate the San Francisco Mint’s pivotal role during the Gold Rush and its survival of the 1906 earthquake, this $5 coin is a favorite among collectors. The obverse depicts a view of the Old Mint building, while the reverse features a replica of the reverse design of the 1904 Liberty Head Half Eagle. The 2006 San Francisco Old Mint $5 coin has a combined mintage of fewer than 70,000 coins, making it a rare and significant collectible.
4. 2014 Civil Rights Act $5 Gold Coin
Marking the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, this coin is a tribute to the struggle for equality and justice in the United States. The obverse, designed by Don Everhart, shows three civil rights activists in a powerful depiction of unity and determination. The reverse features the Liberty Bell, symbolizing freedom. With its profound historical significance, this coin appeals to both collectors and history enthusiasts.
5. 2020 Women’s Suffrage Centennial $5 Gold Coin
Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, this coin is a celebration of progress and empowerment. The obverse, designed by Justin Kunz, depicts an allegorical figure of Liberty holding a torch and a ballot. The reverse, by Patricia Morris, features a ballot box adorned with an eagle. Its unique design and historical relevance make it a standout addition to any collection.
Conclusion
Modern $5 gold commemorative coins are not only made of 90% gold but also represent milestones in American history and culture. Their limited mintages, intricate designs, and historical connections ensure they maintain a strong appeal among numismatists and investors alike.
Whether you’re drawn to these coins for their precious metal content or their storytelling, these five selections are worth considering for any collection. Each coin offers a tangible connection to history, ensuring they remain cherished for generations to come.
FAQs
What are $5 gold commemorative coins?
These are special gold coins minted by the U.S. Mint to honor significant people, events, or themes in American history, typically with a $5 face value.
Are $5 gold commemorative coins valuable?
Yes, many modern $5 gold commemoratives are sought after due to their gold content, limited mintage, and historical significance.
What makes a $5 gold commemorative coin collectible?
Factors such as low mintage numbers, unique designs, historical relevance, and their intrinsic gold value make them highly collectible.