The 1963 American coin set from the Philadelphia Mint is a collection of coins that represent a significant time in American history. This set includes five coins, each with its own unique design and meaning. Let’s take a closer look at each coin and its significance.
1. Lincoln Penny
The Lincoln penny has been in circulation since 1909 and features a bust of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse side. The reverse side depicts two wheat stalks, which gave the coin its nickname “wheat penny.” However, in 1959, the wheat design was replaced with the Lincoln Memorial, making the 1963 penny one of the last to feature the wheat design. This coin serves as a reminder of the country’s long-standing history and the important role President Lincoln played in preserving it.
2. Jefferson Nickel
The Jefferson nickel was first minted in 1938 and features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse side. The reverse side showcases Jefferson’s famous Monticello estate. Interestingly, the design for this coin was chosen through a public competition, making it the first coin to have a design chosen this way. The 1963 nickel is particularly special as it was the last to be minted with a composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel. In 1965, the composition was changed due to a nationwide coin shortage.
3. Roosevelt Dime
The Roosevelt dime is named after President Franklin D. Roosevelt and was first minted in 1946. The obverse side features a portrait of President Roosevelt, and the reverse side depicts a torch, an oak branch, and an olive branch, symbolizing liberty, strength, and peace. The 1963 dime also marks the end of the iconic winged Mercury design, which was replaced in 1946.
4. Washington Quarter
The Washington quarter has been in circulation since 1932 and continues to be minted today. The obverse side features a profile of the first U.S. President, George Washington, while the reverse side features a bald eagle and an olive branch. The 1963 quarter is notable as it was the last to be minted with a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. After 1964, the silver content was reduced due to the rising price of the metal.
5. Franklin Half Dollar
The Franklin half dollar was first minted in 1948 and features a portrait of Founding Father Benjamin Franklin on the obverse side. The reverse side shows the Liberty Bell, which is an iconic symbol of American independence. The 1963 half dollar was the last to be minted with a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper before it was changed to a copper-nickel alloy. The Franklin half dollar was also discontinued in 1963 and replaced with the Kennedy half dollar, making the 1963 half dollar a significant piece of American history.
In conclusion, the 1963 American coin set from the Philadelphia Mint holds a special place in history. Not only does it represent the end of iconic coin designs and composition changes, but it also serves as a reminder of the country’s rich and ever-changing history. Whether you’re a collector or a history buff, this coin set is a valuable addition to any collection.