While there are a few series from the United States Mint that honor this nation, none have quite the symbolism and detail than the one that began in 2018. Starting off with an introductory coin, the American Innovation $1 Coin Program is one that collectors can hang their hat on.
American Innovation Dollar (2018-Date)
The United States Mint issued the introductory coin to the American Innovation $1 Coin Program in 2018 and have since followed up with four coins a year honoring each state. Authorized by Public Law 115-197, the new 15-year series aims to “symbolize quintessentially American traits---the willingness to explore, discover, and create your own destiny,” according to the Mint.
Released in Uncirculated, Proof, and Reverse Proof finishes, the states are being honored in the order in which they were ratified by the Constitution or introduced to the Union. In addition to the each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia and each of the five U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands) are also being honored with a $1 coin. Reverse designs are chosen by the Treasury secretary after deliberation with the governor of each state or territorial executive in addition to the Commission of Fine Arts and a review by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC).
All the coins share a common obverse depicting a stark image of the Statue of Liberty surrounded by the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the denomination. A gear-like privy is featured below “IN GOD WE TRUST” as it changes each year. The year 2019 marked the first year that we saw the coins honoring each state---showcasing innovations and innovators who made an impact on our nation in industry, education, science, and more. The series will continue to run through 2032.
Source: The Official 2024 Red Book; U.S. Mint
