United States Constitution Bicentennial coins explained

The United States Constitution Bicentennial commemorative coins are a series of commemorative coins which were issued by the United States Mint in 1987.

Legislation

The Bicentennial of the Constitution Coins and Medals Act authorized the production of two coins, a silver dollar and a gold half eagle, to commemorate the bicentennial of the signing of the US Constitution. The act allowed the coins to be struck in both proof and uncirculated finishes.^[1]

Designs

Dollar

The obverse of the United States Constitution Bicentennial dollar, designed by Patricia L. Verani, features a sheaf of parchments, a quill pen, and the words "We the People". The reverse, also designed by Verani, portrays a cross section of Americans from various periods of history.^[2]

Half eagle

The obverse of the United States Constitution Bicentennial half eagle, designed by Marcel Jovine, features a modernistic, highly stylized eagle holding a quill pen. The reverse, also by Jovine, features a quill pen with the words, "We the People".^[3]

Specifications

Dollar

• Display Box Color: Navy Blue
• Edge: Reeded
• Weight: 26.730 grams; 0.8594 troy ounce
• Diameter: 38.10 millimeters; 1.50 inches
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

Half Eagle

• Display Box Color: Navy Blue
• Edge: Reeded
• Weight: 8.359 grams; 0.2687 troy ounce
• Diameter: 21.59 millimeters; 0.850 inch
• Composition: 90% Gold, 3.6% Silver, 6.4% Copper

See also

• United States commemorative coins
• List of United States commemorative coins and medals (1980s)
• Bill of Rights commemorative coins

Notes and References

1. Web site: Text of H.R. 3415 (99th): Bicentennial of the Constitution Coins and Medals Act (Passed Congress version). GovTrack.us. en. 2021-05-11.
2. Web site: Constitution Bicentennial Dollar. United States Mint. 2019-03-31.
3. Web site: Constitution Bicentennial Gold $5. United States Mint. 2019-03-31.