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The George Washington gold half eagle is a commemorative coin issued by the United States Mint in 1999, the 200th anniversary of Washington's death.
United States | |
Value | $5 U.S. dollars |
---|---|
Mass | 8.359 g (0.27 troy oz) |
Diameter | 21.59 mm (.850 in) |
Edge | Reeded |
Composition | 90% Au 10% Alloy |
Gold | 0.24 troy oz |
Years of minting | 1999 |
Mint marks | W |
Obverse | |
Design | Profile of George Washington |
Designer | Laura Gardin Fraser |
Reverse | |
Design | Traditional view of a bald eagle |
Designer | Laura Gardin Fraser |
The George Washington Commemorative Coin Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104–329 (text) (PDF)) authorized the production of a commemorative $5 gold coin (half eagle) to commemorate the life of George Washington, leader of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and the nation's first commander-in-chief. The act allowed the coins to be struck in both proof and uncirculated finishes.[1]
The obverse of the George Washington gold half eagle, designed by Laura Gardin Fraser, bears a right-facing portrait of Washington. The reverse, also designed by Fraser, features the Heraldic Eagle with outspread wings.[2] Fraser's obverse was later used as the obverse for the coins of the circulating American Women quarters program.[3]