The 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar: A Unique Commemorative Coin

The 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar is a special coin created to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the writing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” This song became the national anthem of the United States. The silver dollar was released on March 5, 2012, alongside the Star-Spangled Banner $5 Gold Coin, marking this important occasion in American history.

Details of the 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar

Each silver dollar is made of 90% silver and measures 1.5 inches in diameter. Below is a table summarizing the key details of the coin.

FeatureDescription
Composition90% Silver
Diameter1.5 inches
Maximum Production500,000 coins
Release DateMarch 5, 2012

Pricing Information

The United States Mint produced the coins at special introductory prices, which ended on April 5, 2012. After this date, prices increased by $5. The pricing information is summarized in the table below.

Coin TypeIntroductory PriceRegular Price
Proof Silver Dollar$49.95$54.95
Uncirculated Silver Dollar$44.95$49.95

The 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Two-Coin Proof Set

In addition to the individual silver dollars, the Mint also offered a two-coin proof set. This set includes one proof silver dollar and one proof $5 gold coin. The price for this set started at $579.30, but it could change weekly based on the price of gold. Below is the pricing information for the two-coin proof set.

Set TypePrice
Two-Coin Proof Set$579.30

How the Coins Were Approved

Both the silver dollar and the $5 gold coin were authorized by Congress when they passed the Star-Spangled Banner Commemorative Coin Act (Public Law 111-232). This act was introduced by Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger from Maryland and signed into law by President Barack Obama on August 16, 2010.

Congressman Ruppersberger expressed his pride about the coins, saying, “This coin is a great honor and the product of years of hard work in an extremely competitive process. It will help raise much-needed funds so we can properly celebrate the role Marylanders played in our nation’s fight to victory and share that rich history with the rest of the country.”

Supporting the War of 1812 Bicentennial

A surcharge of $10 is added to the sale of each Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar. This money is used to support the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission. The funds help pay for events, educational programs, and preservation efforts related to the War of 1812.

Surcharge AmountPurpose
$10Funds activities related to the War of 1812, including educational outreach and preservation.

Design Features of the Silver Dollar

The front side of the silver dollar, known as the obverse, features Lady Liberty holding a 15-star, 15-stripe Star-Spangled Banner, which represents “The Battle of Baltimore at Fort McHenry.” In the background, you can see Fort McHenry. The inscriptions on this side include LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and 2012. The design was created by Joel Iskowitz, a master designer from the Artistic Infusion Program, and was sculpted by Phebe Hemphill, a sculptor-engraver for the United States Mint.

Design ElementDescription
Front Design (Obverse)Lady Liberty with Star-Spangled Banner
BackgroundFort McHenry
InscriptionsLIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, 2012
DesignerJoel Iskowitz (Artistic Infusion Program)
SculptorPhebe Hemphill (U.S. Mint Sculptor-Engraver)

Conclusion

The 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar is more than just a coin; it is a symbol of American pride and history. Celebrating the national anthem’s bicentennial, this coin helps remind us of the struggles and victories of our past. With every coin sold, funds go towards preserving our history and supporting educational programs related to the War of 1812. Whether you’re a collector or just someone who loves history, this coin holds a special place in American culture.

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FAQs

What is the significance of the 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar?

The 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar commemorates the 200th anniversary of the writing of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which became the national anthem of the United States.

How much silver is in the 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar?

Each silver dollar is made of 90% silver, which is the standard composition for modern commemorative coins.

When was the 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar released, and where can I buy it?

The silver dollar was released on March 5, 2012. It was available for purchase directly from the United States Mint’s website during its release.

What is the price of the 2012 Star-Spangled Banner Silver Dollar?

The introductory price for the proof version was $49.95, while the uncirculated version was $44.95.

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