The U.S. Mint issued the 2006 Benjamin Franklin Commemorative Silver Dollars to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of one of America’s most influential founding figures. These commemorative coins highlight two of Franklin’s many contributions to American society.
The series includes two distinct designs:
- Benjamin Franklin Founding Father Silver Dollar
- Benjamin Franklin Scientist Silver Dollar
Each coin honors a different aspect of Franklin’s life. In addition to being a noted scientist, Franklin was also an author, diplomat, inventor, and played a significant role in shaping early American currency and coinage. The coins were authorized by the U.S. Congress under the Benjamin Franklin Commemorative Coin Act (Public Law 108-464).
The Benjamin Franklin Scientist Silver Dollar
On the obverse of the Scientist Silver Dollar, a young Franklin is shown flying a kite, referencing his famous experiments with electricity. This design was crafted by Norman E. Nemeth and features the inscriptions BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, SCIENCE, LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and 1706-2006.
The reverse design, by Charles Vickers, features Franklin’s well-known political cartoon, “Join, or Die,” symbolizing his call for a united colonial front. The reverse also bears the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and ONE DOLLAR.
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The Benjamin Franklin Founding Father Silver Dollar
The Founding Father Silver Dollar features a portrait of an older Franklin on the obverse, designed by Don Everhart. It includes the inscriptions BENJAMIN FRANKLIN TERCENTENARY, 1706, 2006, IN GOD WE TRUST, and LIBERTY.
On the reverse of this coin, Donna Weaver designed an image of a 1776 Continental Currency dollar, acknowledging Franklin’s role in shaping early American money. The reverse also includes the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and ONE DOLLAR.
Surcharges and Beneficiaries
The surcharges collected from the sale of these coins were directed to the Franklin Institute to support the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary Commission, which worked to commemorate Franklin’s lasting legacy.