The 2000 Library of Congress Commemorative Coins, released on April 24, 2000, were among the most notable coin programs issued by the U.S. Mint in the year 2000. Celebrating the bicentennial of the Library of Congress, these coins were described as “The Coins of Many Firsts” due to the groundbreaking features and historical significance they represented. This release was one of only two commemorative programs issued by the Mint that year.
Authorized by Congress
The coins were authorized under the Library of Congress Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act of 1998 (Public Law 105-268). This act ensured the coins would be struck in 2000, making them the first U.S. commemorative coins of the 21st century and the new millennium. Furthermore, it marked the first time a U.S. commemorative coin honored a library, with an additional distinction of featuring a bimetallic design—a combination of gold and platinum, a first for the U.S. Mint.
U.S. Mint Acting Director John Mitchell expressed pride in the coins’ creation, stating, “We are honored to be part of a program celebrating the bicentennial of the Library of Congress, the nation’s oldest federal cultural institution and the largest library in the world.” He added, “As part of the celebration, the U.S. Mint will unveil two Library of Congress Commemorative Coins—a beautiful one-dollar silver coin, and for the first time ever, a skillfully prepared ten-dollar gold and platinum bimetallic coin.”
The $10 Bimetallic Coin
The $10 bimetallic coin, crafted from platinum and gold, stands out as a masterpiece of design and innovation. Its obverse, designed by U.S. Mint engraver and sculptor John Mercanti, depicts the hand of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, raising the torch of learning above the dome of the Library’s Jefferson Building.
On the reverse, a laurel wreath encircles the Library of Congress logo, symbolizing knowledge and achievement. This design was created by Thomas D. Rogers, Sr., another talented engraver at the U.S. Mint.
The $1 Silver Coin
The silver dollar in the program also features stunning artistry. Its obverse, designed by Thomas D. Rogers, Sr., shows an open book with the torch of learning prominently displayed, symbolizing the spread of knowledge.
सम्बंधित ख़बरें
The reverse, designed by John Mercanti, highlights an architectural rendering of the Jefferson Building’s iconic dome, further connecting the coin to the Library’s legacy.
Supporting a Noble Cause
Proceeds from the sale of these commemorative coins included surcharges collected by the U.S. Mint. These funds were forwarded to the Library of Congress Trust Fund Board, where they were used to support outreach initiatives aimed at making the Library’s vast collection accessible to all Americans.
The 2000 Library of Congress Commemorative Coins remain a testament to the enduring legacy of the Library and its mission to preserve and share knowledge. With their innovative designs and historical significance, they continue to be cherished by collectors and history enthusiasts alike.