2006 San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Silver Dollar
The 2006 San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Silver Dollar was issued by the United States Mint to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the opening of the San Francisco Old Mint building. The building was constructed in 1874 and served as a branch of the United States Mint until 1937. It was then used as an assay office until 1975 and was later restored and opened as a museum in 2003.
The San Francisco Old Mint building played an important role in the history of the United States Mint. It was one of only a few facilities that were authorized to produce coins during the California Gold Rush. The building also served as a safe haven for gold and silver during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire.
Design
The obverse of the 2006 San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Silver Dollar features a rendition of the San Francisco Old Mint building along with the inscriptions "Liberty", "In God We Trust", and "San Francisco Old Mint". The reverse design features an eagle with outspread wings, holding an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left talon, along with the inscriptions "United States of America", "One Dollar", and "E Pluribus Unum". The coin was designed by John Mercanti.
Specifications
The 2006 San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Silver Dollar is a one-dollar coin that is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper. The coin has a diameter of 38.1 millimeters and a weight of 26.73 grams. The maximum mintage for the coin was set at 500,000.
Release
The 2006 San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Silver Dollar was released on May 25, 2006, and was available for purchase from the United States Mint until December 15, 2006. The coin was offered in both uncirculated and proof versions. The uncirculated version was priced at $35.00 and the proof version was priced at $39.00. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the coin was used to support the restoration and preservation of the San Francisco Old Mint building.
Value
The value of the 2006 San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Silver Dollar varies depending on the condition of the coin and whether it is graded by a professional grading service. As of 2021, an uncirculated coin is worth around $35, while a proof coin is worth around $45. Coins that are graded as MS 70 or PF 70 by a professional grading service can be worth significantly more.
Conclusion
The 2006 San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Silver Dollar is a beautiful coin that commemorates an important building in the history of the United States Mint. The coin's design, specifications, and release make it a popular item among coin collectors and history enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, the 2006 San Francisco Old Mint Commemorative Silver Dollar is definitely a coin worth adding to your collection.