1996 National Community Service Commemorative Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1996 National Community Service Commemorative Dollar is a United States commemorative dollar. Authorized in 1996 to celebrate the contributions of community service volunteers across America. The obverse adapts a design by Augustus Saint-Gaudens originally created for the Women's Auxiliary of the Massachusetts Civil Service Reform Association. Surcharges supported community service programs. The obverse features a standing figure of Liberty holding a lamp and book, based on an early Augustus Saint-Gaudens medal design, with the sun encircling the flame, while the reverse displays a wreath of laurel surrounding the words 'Service for America'. Designed by Thomas D. Rogers/William C. Cousins. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. The Community Service dollar's connection to Augustus Saint-Gaudens gives it an artistic pedigree that distinguishes it among modern commemoratives, though its relatively modest sales make it one of the scarcer issues.
