The George Washington gold half eagle is a commemorative coin issued by the United States Mint in 1999, the 200th anniversary of Washington's death.
United States | |
| Value | $5 U.S. dollars |
|---|---|
| Mass | 8.359 g (0.27 troy oz) |
| Diameter | 21.59 mm (.850 in) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Composition | 90% Au 10% Alloy |
| Gold | 0.24 troy oz |
| Years of minting | 1999 |
| Mint marks | W |
| Obverse | |
 | |
| Design | Profile of George Washington |
| Designer | Laura Gardin Fraser |
| Reverse | |
 | |
| Design | Traditional view of a bald eagle |
| Designer | Laura Gardin Fraser |
Legislation
The George Washington Commemorative Coin Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104–329 (text) (PDF)) authorized the production of a commemorative $5 gold coin (half eagle) to commemorate the life of George Washington, leader of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and the nation's first commander-in-chief. The act allowed the coins to be struck in both proof and uncirculated finishes.[1]
Design
The obverse of the George Washington gold half eagle, designed by Laura Gardin Fraser, bears a right-facing portrait of Washington. The reverse, also designed by Fraser, features the Heraldic Eagle with outspread wings.[2] Fraser's obverse was later used as the obverse for the coins of the circulating American Women quarters program.[3]
Specifications
- Display Box: Maroon
- Edge: Reeded
- Weight: 8.359 grams; 0.27 troy ounce
- Diameter: 21.59 millimeters; 0.850 inch
- Composition: 90% Gold, 10% Alloy
See also
References
- ↑ "Text of H.R. 2026 (104th): George Washington Commemorative Coin Act of 1996 (Passed Congress version)". GovTrack.us. Retrieved 2021-07-01.
- ↑ "George Washington Gold Five-Dollar". United States Mint. Retrieved 2021-07-01.
- ↑ "Fraser portrait to finally debut on quarter in 2022". CoinWorld. Retrieved 2022-03-25.
