Library of Congress bimetallic eagle

The Library of Congress bimetallic eagle is a modern U.S. commemorative coin issued in the ten dollar denomination. It is the first gold and platinum bimetallic coin to be issued by the United States Mint. It was issued in proof and business strike qualities.

Library of Congress bimetallic eagle
United States
Value10 U.S. dollars
Mass16.259 g (0.5227 ozt)
Diameter27.00 mm
Thickness2.35 mm
EdgeReeded
Composition48% Pt (.9995 fineness)
48% Au (.900 fineness)
4% Alloy
Catalog numberKM# 312
Obverse
DesignHand of Minerva raising the torch of learning over the dome of the Jefferson building
DesignerJohn Mercanti
Design date1999
Reverse
DesignThe Library of Congress seal encircled by a laurel leaf
DesignerThomas D. Rogers, Sr.
Design date1999

The issue price was $425 for the proof version and $405 for the uncirculated (business strike) version.

Design

The bimetallic coin design was inspired by the graceful architecture of the library's Jefferson Building. The outer ring is stamped from a sheet of gold, then a solid core of platinum is placed within the ring. Then, the gold ring and platinum core are simultaneously stamped forming an annular bead where the two precious metals meet. The obverse depicts the hand of Minerva, the Goddess of Wisdom, raising the torch of learning aside the dome of the Thomas Jefferson Building. The coin's reverse is marked with the Library of Congress seal encircled by a laurel wreath, symbolizing its national accomplishment.

Specifications

Mintage (max.): 200,000 (all options). The final mintages were 7,261 uncirculated, and 27,445 proof.[1]

U.S. Mint Facility: West Point, NY

Public Law: 105-268

See also

References


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