A United States Mint commemorative coin honors the 17th President of the United States. Part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, this particular issue features a portrait of the former president on its obverse. The reverse design is consistent throughout the series, depicting the Statue of Liberty. This coin is made of a manganese-brass alloy, giving it a golden color. An example would be a coin dated 2011, bearing Johnson’s likeness, intended for collectors and circulation.
The importance of this coin lies in its role as a numismatic item and a historical artifact. It serves as a tangible representation of American history and presidential legacy, fostering interest in the nation’s past. Benefits extend to collectors who appreciate its aesthetic value and potential investment opportunities. Its release was part of a broader initiative to revitalize coin collecting and educate the public about U.S. presidents.
The information presented provides a foundation for further exploration of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, including details about minting processes, mintage figures, and the historical context surrounding the presidency it commemorates. Further research can also delve into market values, grading standards, and the coin’s overall impact on the numismatic community.
1. Presidential $1 Coin Program
The Presidential $1 Coin Program, enacted by the United States Congress, directly facilitated the creation and release of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. This program mandated the U.S. Mint to issue dollar coins honoring deceased U.S. Presidents in the order they served. Consequently, the Andrew Johnson coin is a direct result of this legislative initiative; without the program, the coin would not exist. The program dictated the coin’s basic design parameters, including the obverse featuring the president’s portrait and the reverse depicting the Statue of Liberty, standard across the series.
The importance of the Presidential $1 Coin Program to the Andrew Johnson coin’s existence extends beyond mere creation. The program’s established distribution channels and marketing efforts played a significant role in the coin’s initial reception and subsequent collectibility. For instance, the U.S. Mint actively promoted the program, providing educational materials and making the coins available through its website and participating banks. This ensured a level of public awareness and accessibility that would not have been present without the structured framework of the program. Furthermore, the program’s sequential release of coins spurred collector interest, with each new presidential coin anticipated by numismatists.
In summary, the Presidential $1 Coin Program was instrumental in the conception, production, and distribution of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. Understanding this connection is crucial for appreciating the coin’s place within a broader historical and numismatic context. The program ensured uniformity in design and materials across the series, contributing to its value as a collectible set and providing a tangible link to American presidential history. The program’s cessation, due to factors such as low public demand for dollar coins, ultimately underscores the limited lifespan and unique historical position of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar within the broader landscape of U.S. coinage.
2. United States Mint
The United States Mint holds the sole responsibility for producing and distributing all legal tender coinage in the United States, including the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. Its involvement is not merely incidental; it is the originating and controlling entity behind the coin’s existence and characteristics.
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Coin Design and Production
The U.S. Mint’s artistic and engineering teams create the designs for all U.S. coins. In the case of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar, this involved selecting the portrait of Johnson for the obverse and adhering to the Statue of Liberty design mandated for the reverse of Presidential dollars. Production processes, including die creation, metal alloy preparation (manganese-brass), and striking, were all managed within the U.S. Mint’s facilities, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to specifications.
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Quality Control and Standards
The U.S. Mint enforces rigorous quality control standards throughout the production process. This includes monitoring the alloy composition, weight, diameter, and strike quality of each coin. These standards are essential for maintaining the integrity of U.S. coinage and ensuring the coin meets legal tender requirements. Examples of quality control measures include regular die inspections and statistical sampling of finished coins to identify and remove defects.
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Distribution and Circulation
The U.S. Mint is responsible for the distribution of new coins into circulation. For the Andrew Johnson gold dollar, this involved making the coins available to banks and financial institutions, which then distributed them to the public. The Mint also sold the coins directly to collectors through its website and other channels. This distribution network ensures that the coins reach a wide audience, both for everyday use and for numismatic purposes.
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Record Keeping and Mintage Figures
The U.S. Mint maintains detailed records of the number of coins produced each year. These mintage figures are crucial for understanding the rarity and potential value of a coin. The official mintage figures for the Andrew Johnson gold dollar are public records, accessible through the U.S. Mint’s website. Collectors rely on these figures to assess the coin’s scarcity and make informed purchasing decisions.
In conclusion, the United States Mint’s role in the creation of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar is comprehensive and integral. From design and production to distribution and record-keeping, the Mint’s actions directly determine the coin’s physical characteristics, availability, and ultimate place within the landscape of U.S. coinage. The Mint’s involvement provides the coin with its official status and ensures its adherence to established quality and legal standards.
3. 2011 Release
The year 2011 marks the specific period when the Andrew Johnson gold dollar was officially released into circulation by the United States Mint. This temporal marker is not arbitrary; it establishes a concrete point of origin, influencing the coin’s value, availability, and historical context.
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Timing within the Presidential Series
The 2011 release places the Andrew Johnson gold dollar within the broader framework of the Presidential $1 Coin Program. As the program honored presidents in order of service, the 2011 release date indicates Johnsons position in the series. It followed coins honoring previous presidents and preceded those honoring subsequent ones. This sequential release is crucial for collectors seeking a complete set. A delay in the release date would have shifted its position within the numismatic landscape.
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Mintage Considerations
The 2011 release year is directly connected to the coin’s mintage figures. The U.S. Mint determines production numbers based on anticipated demand for each coin. If demand for the Andrew Johnson dollar in 2011 was high, the Mint would have produced a larger quantity; conversely, low demand would have resulted in a smaller mintage. These figures directly impact the coin’s scarcity and potential value on the secondary market. For example, if mintage figures for the 2011 Andrew Johnson dollar were significantly lower than other coins in the series, it would likely command a higher premium among collectors.
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Economic Context of the Release
The economic conditions prevailing in 2011 may have influenced the coin’s reception and initial circulation. Factors such as economic recession or growth could have affected public interest in collecting and the overall demand for new coinage. During periods of economic uncertainty, some individuals may have viewed the coins as a form of investment, while others may have prioritized more immediate financial needs. The economic context of the 2011 release is a contributing factor to understanding the coin’s early adoption and subsequent valuation.
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Marketing and Promotion Strategies
The U.S. Mint’s marketing and promotional activities surrounding the 2011 release played a role in raising awareness and generating interest in the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. These strategies may have included advertising campaigns, educational materials, and partnerships with numismatic organizations. Successful marketing efforts could have spurred higher demand and increased the coin’s initial popularity. The effectiveness of the marketing campaigns during the 2011 release period is a factor in analyzing its early success and long-term collectibility.
In conclusion, the 2011 release date is not simply a calendar marker for the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. It serves as a critical reference point for understanding its place within the Presidential $1 Coin Program, its mintage figures, its reception within the prevailing economic climate, and the impact of the U.S. Mint’s marketing strategies. All of these factors collectively shape the coin’s historical context and its value to collectors and historians alike.
4. Manganese-brass alloy
The Andrew Johnson gold dollar derives its characteristic golden color from its composition: a manganese-brass alloy. This alloy is not pure gold, but rather a mixture primarily composed of copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel. The presence of manganese, in particular, contributes to the coin’s durability and resistance to corrosion, while the specific proportions of each metal influence the overall color and weight. The choice of this alloy was a deliberate decision by the United States Mint, balancing aesthetic appeal, cost-effectiveness, and the practical requirements of producing a circulating coin. Without the specific composition of this alloy, the coin would lack its distinguishing color and physical properties.
The practical significance of understanding the alloy composition lies in its implications for authentication and preservation. Knowing that the Andrew Johnson dollar is not made of gold is crucial in preventing misidentification and inaccurate valuation. Furthermore, understanding the properties of manganese-brass informs proper storage and handling practices to minimize tarnish or damage. For instance, cleaning agents suitable for gold coins may be detrimental to manganese-brass, highlighting the importance of using appropriate methods. The alloy’s composition also relates to the coin’s long-term durability and resistance to wear during circulation.
In summary, the manganese-brass alloy is integral to the identity and functionality of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. Its selection was a practical choice by the U.S. Mint, impacting the coin’s appearance, durability, and value. Understanding the specific properties of this alloy is essential for collectors and numismatists seeking to authenticate, preserve, and appreciate this specific coin. The alloy’s non-gold composition distinguishes it from other coins and influences appropriate handling and care, linking directly to the coin’s longevity and collector appeal.
5. Presidential Portrait
The Presidential Portrait is the dominant design element on the obverse of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar, serving as the primary visual identifier and a key component in its historical significance. Its selection, artistic execution, and historical accuracy are central to understanding the coin’s purpose and appeal.
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Image Selection and Historical Accuracy
The choice of a specific portrait of Andrew Johnson was a deliberate decision by the United States Mint’s design team. Considerations included the availability of high-quality source images, the desire to present a dignified and representative likeness, and adherence to historical accuracy. The selected portrait aims to reflect Johnson’s appearance during his presidency, contributing to the coin’s educational value. For instance, the Mint consulted historical records and portraiture to ensure the accuracy of Johnson’s facial features, hairstyle, and attire. Discrepancies or inaccuracies in the portrait would diminish the coin’s credibility and historical significance.
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Artistic Style and Execution
The artistic style employed in rendering the presidential portrait impacts the coin’s aesthetic appeal and overall design. The portrait is typically rendered in a realistic style, emphasizing detail and capturing the individual’s unique features. The engraving technique, whether traditional or digital, affects the sharpness and clarity of the image. Examples of artistic considerations include the depth of the relief, the texture of the skin, and the depiction of light and shadow. An expertly executed portrait enhances the coin’s visual impact and its value as a collectible. Conversely, a poorly rendered portrait detracts from the coin’s appeal and may diminish its perceived worth.
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Symbolic Representation
The presidential portrait serves as a symbolic representation of the individual and their presidency. It evokes associations with Johnson’s policies, achievements, and controversies. The portrait, therefore, becomes a tangible link to a specific period in American history and the leader who shaped it. For instance, the portrait may subtly convey Johnson’s stern demeanor or his resolute character. The portrait’s symbolic weight contributes to the coin’s educational purpose and its ability to stimulate interest in American history. A thoughtfully designed portrait enhances these symbolic associations, while a generic or uninspired depiction may fail to capture the essence of the president’s legacy.
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Design Integration with Coin Elements
The presidential portrait is not an isolated element; it must be integrated harmoniously with other design features on the coin, such as inscriptions, dates, and mint marks. The portrait’s size, placement, and orientation must complement these elements to create a cohesive and visually appealing composition. Examples of design integration include positioning the portrait to allow sufficient space for inscriptions, using a font style that complements the portrait’s style, and balancing the portrait’s weight with other design elements. Successful design integration enhances the coin’s overall aesthetic and ensures that all elements work together to convey its intended message. Poor design integration, on the other hand, can create a cluttered or unbalanced appearance, diminishing the coin’s aesthetic value.
In summary, the Presidential Portrait on the Andrew Johnson gold dollar is far more than a simple likeness. It is a carefully considered element that encompasses historical accuracy, artistic execution, symbolic representation, and design integration. These facets contribute to the coin’s educational value, aesthetic appeal, and its ability to connect collectors and the public with a significant figure in American history. The portrait is central to the coin’s identity, making it a powerful symbol of Andrew Johnson’s legacy within the context of U.S. coinage.
6. Statue of Liberty Reverse
The Statue of Liberty reverse is a consistent feature on all Presidential $1 Coins, including the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. Its presence is not specific to Johnson; rather, it is a standardized design element across the entire series. This uniformity results from a Congressional mandate that prescribed the Statue of Liberty as the reverse image for all coins within the program, regardless of the president featured on the obverse. The importance of the Statue of Liberty reverse lies in its symbolic representation of American freedom and democracy, providing a unifying theme across the Presidential $1 Coin series. This standardization ensures that despite the diverse presidencies commemorated, a consistent national symbol reinforces the collective identity of the nation.
The decision to use the Statue of Liberty had practical implications for the series’ design and marketing. It simplified the design process by eliminating the need to create unique reverse images for each president, allowing the U.S. Mint to focus on the obverse portrait. Furthermore, the universally recognized image of the Statue of Liberty provided instant recognition and appeal, facilitating marketing efforts and increasing public awareness of the program. For instance, advertisements for the Presidential $1 Coin series prominently featured the Statue of Liberty, leveraging its iconic status to attract collectors and educate the public about the initiative.
In conclusion, the Statue of Liberty reverse on the Andrew Johnson gold dollar is a crucial, though generalized, element of the coin. Its mandated inclusion within the Presidential $1 Coin Program underscores the program’s intent to unite the diverse presidencies under a shared symbol of American ideals. While not directly related to Johnson’s presidency, the Statue of Liberty reverse reinforces the coin’s national identity and contributes to its collectibility. Understanding this relationship is essential for appreciating the broader context of the Presidential $1 Coin Program and the Andrew Johnson gold dollar’s place within it. The challenge lies in balancing the individual presidential commemorations with a unifying national symbol, a balance achieved through the consistent use of the Statue of Liberty on the reverse.
7. Numismatic Collectible
The designation “numismatic collectible” is intrinsically linked to the Andrew Johnson gold dollar, dictating its value and appeal beyond its face value as legal tender. The coin’s status as a collectible results from several factors, including its limited mintage, its historical significance as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, and its aesthetic qualities. The United States Mint intended the coin for circulation; however, its production was also geared toward the collector market, evidenced by the availability of uncirculated versions and special packaging. This duality directly influences its market value; while circulated examples trade near face value, uncirculated specimens, particularly those in pristine condition, command premiums due to their desirability among numismatists. A real-world example is the price difference between a circulated Andrew Johnson dollar found in everyday transactions and an uncirculated one graded by a third-party grading service such as PCGS or NGC, the latter often selling for significantly more.
The implications of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar’s numismatic collectible status extend to preservation and handling. Collectors meticulously safeguard their coins to maintain their condition, employing specialized storage methods to prevent scratches, tarnish, or other damage. This careful handling directly impacts the coin’s long-term value and desirability. For instance, a coin with fingerprints or environmental damage will be worth considerably less than one that has been properly stored and handled. Understanding the principles of numismatic grading and valuation is essential for both novice and experienced collectors. Factors such as strike quality, luster, and the presence of errors all contribute to a coin’s grade and, consequently, its market price. The existence of online resources, price guides, and numismatic communities further facilitates the buying, selling, and appraisal of these collectibles.
In conclusion, the Andrew Johnson gold dollar’s connection to the “numismatic collectible” designation is fundamental to its identity and perceived worth. This status is determined by a combination of factors, including mintage, historical context, condition, and market demand. Challenges in this arena include identifying authentic specimens and accurately assessing their grade. The broader theme of numismatics provides a framework for understanding the cultural, historical, and economic significance of coins as collectible objects, transcending their monetary function. Without this numismatic perspective, the Andrew Johnson gold dollar would simply be a dollar coin; its collectible status elevates it to a piece of American history and art, traded and valued accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following questions address common inquiries regarding the Andrew Johnson gold dollar, providing clear and concise information about its characteristics, value, and historical context.
Question 1: Is the Andrew Johnson gold dollar made of actual gold?
No, the Andrew Johnson gold dollar is not made of gold. It is composed of a manganese-brass alloy, primarily consisting of copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel. This alloy gives the coin its characteristic golden color.
Question 2: What determines the value of an Andrew Johnson gold dollar?
The value is primarily determined by its condition, mintage figures, and demand among collectors. Uncirculated examples in pristine condition command higher premiums than circulated coins. Third-party grading services play a significant role in assessing a coin’s condition and authenticity, influencing its market value.
Question 3: How can one identify a genuine Andrew Johnson gold dollar?
Authenticity can be verified by examining the coin’s weight, diameter, and design details, ensuring they conform to United States Mint specifications. Consulting reputable numismatic resources and seeking expert appraisal can further confirm its genuineness. Discrepancies in these aspects may indicate a counterfeit.
Question 4: Was the Andrew Johnson gold dollar intended for general circulation?
Yes, the Andrew Johnson gold dollar was intended for general circulation as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program. However, its widespread adoption in everyday transactions was limited, leading to its greater significance as a collectible item.
Question 5: How does the Presidential $1 Coin Program relate to the Andrew Johnson gold dollar?
The Presidential $1 Coin Program is the legislative initiative that authorized the creation of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. The program mandated the U.S. Mint to issue dollar coins honoring deceased U.S. Presidents in chronological order, with Johnson’s coin being one of the issues in the series.
Question 6: What is the significance of the Statue of Liberty on the reverse of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar?
The Statue of Liberty is a standard design element on the reverse of all Presidential $1 Coins. It serves as a unifying symbol of American freedom and democracy, providing a consistent national image across the series, irrespective of the president featured on the obverse.
In summary, the Andrew Johnson gold dollar is a numismatic item of interest due to its composition, historical context, and collectibility. Understanding these facets is essential for anyone seeking to acquire or appreciate this particular coin.
The information presented provides a foundation for transitioning to a broader examination of the coin’s historical context within the United States Mint’s broader coin programs and collecting opportunities.
Tips
The following guidance aims to inform potential collectors and researchers about key considerations when engaging with the Andrew Johnson gold dollar.
Tip 1: Verify Authenticity: Prior to acquiring an Andrew Johnson gold dollar, conduct thorough authentication checks. Examine design details, weight, and dimensions against official specifications from the United States Mint. Utilize reputable numismatic resources or consult with experienced dealers to minimize the risk of acquiring counterfeits.
Tip 2: Assess Condition Rigorously: The condition of the coin significantly impacts its value. Familiarize oneself with numismatic grading standards, paying attention to factors such as luster, surface marks, and strike quality. Third-party grading services can provide objective assessments of condition, adding credibility to the coin’s valuation.
Tip 3: Understand Mintage Figures: Research the mintage figures for the Andrew Johnson gold dollar from both the Philadelphia and Denver mints. Lower mintage numbers generally correlate with increased scarcity and potential value. Official United States Mint publications or reputable numismatic databases provide accurate mintage data.
Tip 4: Store Properly: Protect the coin from environmental damage by storing it in appropriate numismatic holders or albums. Avoid handling the coin directly with bare hands to prevent fingerprints or scratches. Proper storage preserves the coin’s condition and long-term value.
Tip 5: Research Market Trends: Monitor market trends and pricing data for the Andrew Johnson gold dollar using reliable numismatic price guides and auction records. Understanding current market values helps inform purchasing decisions and avoids overpaying for the coin.
Tip 6: Differentiate Between Circulated and Uncirculated: Distinguish between circulated and uncirculated examples, as this distinction significantly impacts value. Uncirculated coins retain their original mint luster and lack signs of wear. Circulated coins show signs of use and are generally less valuable.
Tip 7: Recognize the Standard Reverse: Remember that the Statue of Liberty on the reverse is common to all Presidential $1 coins. The focus of collectability is on the obverse design featuring Andrew Johnson.
Adhering to these guidelines contributes to responsible collecting and informed decision-making when dealing with the Andrew Johnson gold dollar.
This concludes specific advice related to the Andrew Johnson gold dollar. Further areas of exploration include understanding the broader Presidential $1 Coin Program and its influence on the coin’s context and collectability.
Andrew Johnson Gold Dollar
The preceding discourse has meticulously examined the Andrew Johnson gold dollar, elucidating its composition, historical context within the Presidential $1 Coin Program, numismatic value, and key considerations for collectors. The analysis emphasized its alloy composition, distinguishing it from actual gold, the importance of assessing condition and mintage figures, and the necessity of verifying authenticity. The standard reverse design, featuring the Statue of Liberty, was presented as a unifying element across the series, while the obverse portrait served as the primary identifier for this specific presidential issue.
As a numismatic item, the Andrew Johnson gold dollar offers a tangible link to American history and the legacy of its seventeenth president. The future value and appeal of this coin depend on sustained collector interest, preservation efforts, and accurate historical documentation. Continued research and engagement within the numismatic community are encouraged to further understand and appreciate the enduring significance of the Andrew Johnson gold dollar within the broader context of U.S. coinage.
