Discover The Untold Story Of The Franklin Pierce Dollar Coin

From the annals of American numismatics, the Franklin Pierce dollar coin emerges as a captivating tale of honor, recognition, and history. As the 14th President of the United States, Franklin Pierce's tenure is often overshadowed by tumultuous times, but his legacy is significantly immortalized in this exquisite piece of currency. This article delves deep into the untold story behind this unique coin, exploring its history, design, and the symbolic resonance it carries within the coin collecting community and American history enthusiasts.

The Life and Legacy of Franklin Pierce

Born on November 23, 1804, in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, Franklin Pierce served as President from 1853 to 1857. His term was marked by the country's expansion through the Gadsden Purchase, the Kansas-Nebraska Act, and the controversial decision to allow slavery in new territories, leading to significant political tension. Despite these conflicts, Pierce's commitment to duty and his contributions to the Democratic Party's foundation cannot be overlooked.

The Creation of the Franklin Pierce Presidential Dollar

The Franklin Pierce dollar coin was introduced as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, launched by the United States Mint in 2007. This program aimed to honor past presidents by featuring them on the obverse side of golden-colored dollar coins.

Design and Symbolism

The obverse of the coin showcases:

• Portrait of Franklin Pierce, facing left, designed by Don Everhart.
• Inscriptions: "FRANKLIN PIERCE" arcing above the portrait, "14th PRESIDENT" below, and the years of his presidency "1853-1857".

The reverse:

• Statue of Liberty, as envisioned by the Mint.
• Inscriptions: "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "$1", "E PLURIBUS UNUM", and "IN GOD WE TRUST".

The edge of the coin features:

• Date, "mintmark", and "AIP" (standing for American Innovation™ and Prosperity).

Historical Significance

The Franklin Pierce dollar coin's release was surrounded by a peculiar controversy. Many felt Pierce's legacy did not warrant such an honor due to his association with policies that exacerbated sectional tensions leading to the Civil War. However, the decision to include him was part of the program's intent to represent every deceased president, highlighting their role in shaping American history.

Collecting the Franklin Pierce Dollar Coin

Value and Rarity

The Franklin Pierce dollar coin, like others in the series, has its value determined by:

• Mint State: Coins in Mint State, especially those with low mintage, tend to command higher premiums from collectors.
• Error Coins: Any minting errors can significantly enhance a coin's rarity and value.
• Proof Coins: Proof versions, with their high-quality finish, often outvalue their circulating counterparts.

Here’s a small glimpse of the pricing at different conditions:

Tips for Collectors

• Certified Grading: Opt for coins graded by reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC for authenticity and quality assurance.

• Sets: Consider acquiring a complete set of presidential dollars, which includes Franklin Pierce, for a cohesive collection.

• Error Hunting: Be on the lookout for errors, as these coins can dramatically increase in value over time.

  <p class="pro-note">🔍 Pro Tip: Always examine coins under a loupe or magnifier to spot minting errors or assess their condition more accurately.</p>

Franklin Pierce Dollar Coin - Fun Facts

• Release Date: The Franklin Pierce dollar was officially released on June 3, 2009.
• First in a Group: The Pierce dollar was part of the second batch of Presidential $1 Coins to be released following the Abraham Lincoln to James Garfield releases.
• Oversight: The coin's edge inscription initially missed the "AIP" mark due to an oversight, corrected in subsequent minting.

Troubleshooting and Common Pitfalls

Avoiding Counterfeits

Counterfeiting can be a significant issue in coin collecting. Here are some steps to ensure authenticity:

• Look for Inconsistencies: Check for inconsistencies in weight, size, and edge lettering.
• Magnification: Use a magnifying glass to examine the coin's details closely.
• Certification: Opt for certified coins to mitigate the risk of purchasing fakes.

Prolonging Coin Life

Coin collectors often overlook the importance of proper storage:

• Storage: Use protective coin holders or capsules to prevent scratches and oxidation.

• Handling: Always handle coins by the edges to avoid fingerprints or oils.

  <p class="pro-note">✋ Pro Tip: Wear cotton gloves when handling your coins to avoid leaving natural oils from your skin on their surfaces, which can lead to tarnishing.</p>

Avoiding Over-Paying

Even seasoned collectors can be tempted to overpay due to market trends or collector hype:

• Research: Always research current market values before purchasing.
• Market Trends: Stay updated on numismatic news and market trends to understand when coins might be overvalued.
• Negotiation: Don't be afraid to negotiate for a better price, especially for coins in less-than-perfect condition.

Exploring More

As our journey with the Franklin Pierce dollar coin comes to a close, we invite you to explore further into the world of presidential coins, delve into the intricacies of coin collecting, and perhaps begin your own collection. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a novice with a newfound interest, the stories and history behind each coin provide a rich tapestry of American history to unravel.

In conclusion, the Franklin Pierce dollar coin not only honors a controversial president but also serves as a reminder of the complex tapestry of American history. From its creation as part of a significant coin program to its impact on collectors, this coin stands as a testament to the enduring nature of history and the numismatic passion it can ignite.

<p class="pro-note">🔖 Pro Tip: Explore the stories of other presidents featured in the Presidential $1 Coin Program to gain a fuller appreciation of America's rich presidential history.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the Presidential $1 Coin Program?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The Presidential $1 Coin Program, launched by the United States Mint in 2007, aims to honor every deceased president of the United States by issuing a series of $1 coins. Each coin features the president's portrait on the obverse side and a common reverse depicting the Statue of Liberty.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Why was Franklin Pierce chosen for the dollar coin?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Franklin Pierce was chosen as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program to represent every deceased president. Despite controversies surrounding his presidency, his role in shaping American history warranted his inclusion in this commemorative series.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I tell if my Franklin Pierce dollar coin is valuable?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The value of a Franklin Pierce dollar coin is determined by its condition, rarity, and any minting errors. Coins in Mint State, especially those with low mintage or minting errors, tend to have higher values. Always seek professional grading or certification for an accurate assessment.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there any special editions of the Franklin Pierce dollar?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, besides the standard circulation coins, there are also Proof versions of the Franklin Pierce dollar, designed for collectors, and special editions with unique finishes or errors which can be particularly valuable.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How should I store my Franklin Pierce dollar coins?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>To protect your coins from wear and damage, store them in protective holders, capsules, or albums specifically designed for coin storage. Avoid direct handling; use cotton gloves or handle coins by the edges to prevent fingerprints.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>