The United States Mint has officially released the final coin in the America the Beautiful series, a program that has been celebrated for its stunning depictions of the nation’s most iconic national parks and landmarks. This historic release marks the conclusion of a series that spanned over a decade, featuring five-ounce silver coins that captured the essence of America’s natural beauty and historical landmarks.
A Tribute to America’s Landmarks
The America the Beautiful series, which began in 2010, aimed to honor national parks and national sites across the United States by showcasing their beauty and importance. Each coin was issued to celebrate the remarkable landmarks and the stories behind them, from the Grand Canyon in Arizona to Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in Maryland. The series became known for its detailed and intricate designs, which paid homage to these treasured sites.
The release of the final coin, issued in 2021, brings the series to a close with a tribute to New Mexico’s Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. This coin is not only a commemoration of the history of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces, but also represents the significance of aviation history in the United States.
Design and Features of the Final Coin
The final release in the series is a 5oz silver uncirculated coin featuring an elaborate design that honors the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen. The obverse of the coin showcases George Washington, as required by law for U.S. coinage. However, the reverse side is where the artistry truly shines. It features the iconic image of a Tuskegee Airman in a flight jacket, a P-51 Mustang fighter plane soaring through the sky, and the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in the background.
The reverse design was crafted by artist Phebe Hemphill, while engraving was done by Charles L. Vickers. The intricate detail highlights the bravery, resilience, and commitment of the Tuskegee Airmen and their contributions to American military history. Surrounding the image are inscriptions marking the year of issue, the name of the site, and the mint mark of the U.S. Mint.
Each coin is minted in 99.9% fine silver and weighs a full five ounces. It also features an uncirculated finish, meaning the coins are struck multiple times to ensure their quality. These coins are coveted not only by collectors but also by investors due to their intrinsic silver content.
Legacy of the America the Beautiful Series
The America the Beautiful series has been instrumental in educating the public about the importance of preserving national parks and historical landmarks. The coins have also highlighted the efforts of those who have shaped American history, such as the Tuskegee Airmen, whose story is woven into the fabric of the nation’s legacy. With each coin, the U.S. Mint provided a window into the rich and diverse history of the country’s most cherished landscapes and monuments.
The series also allowed coin enthusiasts and collectors to own pieces of history in the form of high-quality, beautifully designed silver coins. Over the years, the series included many iconic designs, including those commemorating Yosemite National Park, the Great Smoky Mountains, and the Glacier National Park.
Conclusion
The release of the final America the Beautiful 5oz Silver Uncirculated Coin marks the end of a historic series, but its legacy will live on. The coins provide a tangible connection to the nation’s history, its natural beauty, and the people who have fought to protect it. As collectors continue to treasure these coins, they are reminded not only of the stunning landscapes and historical moments they commemorate but also of the power of numismatics in preserving the American story for generations to come.
FAQs
What is the significance of the final coin in the America the Beautiful series?
The final coin commemorates the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site, honoring the contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen to American military history and their role in the aviation industry.
What is the composition of the America the Beautiful 5oz silver uncirculated coin?
The coin is composed of 99.9% fine silver and weighs five ounces, making it a substantial piece both in terms of physical weight and historical significance.
Why was the America the Beautiful series important to collectors?
The series provided a unique opportunity for coin collectors to own commemorative pieces that celebrated the nation’s history, natural beauty, and military heroes, with detailed designs and high-quality silver content.