Today beginning at 12pm EST, the United States Mint will continue its Platinum Proof Coin Series with the third release honoring the Freedom of the Press. The series uses the lifecycle of the oak tree from seedling to a mighty oak to represent the growth of the Nation that values all things freedom.
The First Amendment to the United States Constitution Platinum Proof Coin Series is a five-year series (2021-2025) featuring five designs on one-ounce 99.95% platinum proof coins. The United States Mint aims to honor the five freedoms in the First Amendment citing the Freedom of Speech as its second release in the program. The First Amendment reads as follows: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peacefully to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
Designed by Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) Designer Donna Weaver and sculpted by United States Mint Chief Engraver Joseph Menna, the obverse design depicts the branch of a mature oak tree with acorns. “WITH FREEDOM OF THE PRESS LIBERTY BEARS FRUIT” is seen inscribed on the top and bottom. Additional inscriptions read “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “2023.”
The reverse that will be featured throughout this five-year series depicts an eagle in flight. An olive branch of peace is grasped in the eagle’s talons. The 99.95% proof platinum coin features the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “$100,” “1 OZ.,” and “.9995 PLATINUM”. AIP Designer Patricia Lucas-Morris designed the reverse with Medallic Artist Don Everhart sculpting it.
Limited in mintage and production to 12,000, the Proof Platinum Coin will come housed in black and silver Original Government Packaging and will be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. The $100 denomination coin will be produced at West Point.
Source: United States Mint
