1996 (P) Smithsonian Institution 150th Anniversary Proof Dollar

Coin Details

Auction Record

$2,300 PR70 11-25-2008 Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1996 (P) Smithsonian Institution 150th Anniversary Proof Dollar is a proof commemorative dollar struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The U.S. Mint produced 129,152 examples. Authorized to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Smithsonian Institution, founded in 1846 with a bequest from British scientist James Smithson 'for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.' The Smithsonian has grown to become the world's largest museum and research complex. The obverse features the first Smithsonian Institution building, known as 'the Castle,' with laurel leaves and the dual dates 1846-1996, while the reverse displays an allegorical figure of knowledge seated atop a globe, holding the torch of knowledge and a scroll inscribed 'Art, History, and Science'. Designed by Al Maletsky/T. James Ferrell. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams, 38.1 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #9743. The Smithsonian dollar celebrates America's premier museum system, and its allegorical Knowledge figure on the reverse is a classical design element rarely seen on modern U.S. coins.