WASHINGTON — The United States Mint and the March of Dimes Foundation unveiled designs today for a commemorative coin to be issued next year in honor of the March of Dimes. The unveiling coincides with the foundation’s observance of Prematurity Awareness Month.
Public Law 112–209, the 2015 March of Dimes Commemorative Coin Act of 2012, authorizes the United States Mint to mint and issue $1 silver coins in recognition and celebration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the March of Dimes. The act calls for the bureau to strike no more than 500,000 coins in uncirculated and proof qualities.
The coin’s designs are emblematic of the March of Dimes’ mission and programs, and its distinguished record of generating Americans’ support to protect our children’s health.
The obverse (heads side) design depicts a profile of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Dr. Jonas Salk with the required inscriptions “Liberty,” “In God We Trust,” and “2015.” Artistic Infusion Program artist Paul C. Balan designed the obverse, and United States Mint Sculptor–Engraver Michael Gaudioso will sculpt it.
The reverse (tails side) design depicts a baby cuddled in the hand of a parent, representing the foundation’s dedication to the health of babies everywhere. The required inscriptions are “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E Pluribus Unum,” “$1,” with the additional inscription “MARCH OF DIMES.” United States Mint Sculptor–Engraver Don Everhart designed and will sculpt the reverse.
Pricing for the 2015 March of Dimes Commemorative Coin will include a surcharge of $10 per coin, which the act authorizes the United States Mint to pay to the March of Dimes to help finance research, education, and services aimed at improving the health of women, infants, and children. Additional pricing information will be announced prior to the coin’s release in 2015.
About the United States Mint
The United States Mint was created by Congress in 1792 and became part of the Department of the Treasury in 1873. It is the Nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage and is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The United States Mint also produces numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. The United States Mint’s numismatic programs are self–sustaining and operate at no cost to the taxpayer.