A United States commemorative coin, issued in 2019, celebrated the 50th anniversary of a pivotal moment in space exploration. This legal tender currency, composed of 90% silver, features designs that commemorate the Apollo 11 mission. One side depicts a boot print on the lunar surface, while the other shows a representation of the famous photograph of Buzz Aldrin on the Moon, with Neil Armstrong reflected in his visor. The coin’s curved shape mimics the design of the Apollo missions crew capsules.
The issuance of this commemorative coin served multiple purposes. It honored the technological achievement and the courage of the astronauts involved. It also generated revenue for organizations like the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the Astronauts Memorial Foundation, and the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation through surcharges added to the coin’s price. Moreover, the coin provided collectors and the public with a tangible piece of history, allowing them to connect with this significant event in a meaningful way. The coin’s design was the result of a juried competition, emphasizing the mission’s cultural impact and lasting legacy.
