John Tyler Dollar Coin Presidential $1 Coin Program
The John Tyler dollar coin is part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, a U.S. Mint initiative to honor former presidents. Released in 2009, this coin celebrates John Tyler, the 10th President of the United States, who served from 1841 to 1845. This article explores its design, history, mintage, value, and significance.
What is John Tyler Dollar Coin
The coin was introduced under the Presidential $1 Coin Act of 2005, which aimed to commemorate U.S. presidents in the order they served. John Tyler became president unexpectedly after William Henry Harrison’s sudden death in 1841, making him the first vice president to assume office. His leadership and policies shaped the nation’s development, justifying his place in this historic coin series.
Design And Features
The coin has a unique design that reflects his legacy. The obverse (front) side features a portrait of John Tyler, sculpted by Phebe Hemphill. The reverse (back) side, designed by Don Everhart, displays the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy. The coin also includes a lettered edge, which carries inscriptions such as “E Pluribus Unum,” “In God We Trust,” and the minting year.
Composition and Specifications
Below is a table outlining the key specifications of the John Tyler dollar coin:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Metal Composition | 88.5% Copper, 6% Zinc, 3.5% Manganese, 2% Nickel |
| Weight | 8.1 grams |
| Diameter | 26.5 mm |
| Thickness | 2 mm |
| Edge | Lettered |
| Minting Year | 2009 |
Mintage and Mint Locations
The San Francisco Mint produced proof versions for collectors. Here’s a look at the total mintage numbers:
| Mint Location | Mintage Quantity |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia (P) | 43,540,000 |
| Denver (D) | 43,540,000 |
| San Francisco (S) – Proof | 2,809,730 |
Edge Lettering
Unlike many coins with smooth or reeded edges, the John Tyler dollar coin has edge inscriptions. These include:
- “E Pluribus Unum” – A Latin phrase meaning “Out of many, one.”
- “In God We Trust” – A national motto of the United States.
- Mint Year and Mintmark – Showing the production year and location.
This feature adds a level of security and uniqueness to the coin.
Collectibility and Market Value
Collectors seek the coin for its historical significance and design. The value depends on condition, rarity, and grading. Below is a price guide based on conditions:
| Coin Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated Coin | $1 (face value) |
| Uncirculated (MS60-MS65) | $2 – $5 |
| Proof Coin (PR69-PR70) | $5 – $10 |
Proof versions struck with greater detail, are more valuable than regular uncirculated coins.
Why Was the John Tyler Dollar Coin Not Circulated?
Despite high production numbers, the coin was not widely used in transactions. This was due to:
- Low demand for $1 coins in everyday commerce.
- Preference for paper currency, which is easier to carry.
- Public hesitation to adopt new coinage formats.
As a result, most coins remain in collector sets, mint rolls, and bags.
How to Identify an Authentic
With counterfeits circulating in the market, collectors should verify its authenticity using the following methods:
- Check the weight and diameter to match official specifications.
- Inspect edge lettering, ensuring clear and precise inscriptions.
- Look for mint marks (P, D, or S) on the edge.
- Use a magnifier to check fine details in the design.
Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and certify the coin’s condition.
Where to Buy?
Collectors can purchase the coin from:
- Coin dealers specializing in U.S. currency.
- Online marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, and collector forums.
- Numismatic conventions and auctions.
- Directly from the U.S. Mint, for proof sets and uncirculated rolls.
Before buying, verify the seller’s credibility to avoid counterfeits or overpriced listings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the John Tyler dollar coin not released into circulation?
The coin was not widely circulated because there was low demand for $1 coins, and the public preferred paper currency for everyday transactions.
How much is it worth today?
A Circulated is worth $1 (face value), while uncirculated or proof versions can sell for $2 to $10, depending on the condition.
Where can I buy it?
You can find it at coin dealers, online marketplaces like eBay, collector forums, and numismatic conventions.
Conclusion
The John Tyler dollar coin represents a key moment in U.S. history, honoring a president who set a precedent for vice-presidential succession. Though it was not circulated, it remains an important piece in numismatic collections. Collectors value it for its unique design, historical significance, and collectible versions.
For those interested in U.S. history or coin collecting, this is a great addition, offering a glimpse into the past while holding potential investment value.
