the dollar project



Welcome to The Dollar Project, a way for our youngest numismatists to learn important reasons why coin collecting is such an interesting hobby. To be able to participate in the program, you must be a member of the American Numismatic Association and be 12 years old or younger. By participating in these four fun activities, you will prepare yourself for the more advanced Ancient and Copper Coin Projects and earn neat prizes along the way.

The United States dollar coin has been minted since 1794. The word "dollar" comes from the German word "thaler." Dollars have not been minted continuously – there have been times when our government thought that they were not needed. For example, no dollars for circulation were struck at the Mint between the years 1805 and 1835. Dollar coins have not always been popular because of their weight and size. The U.S. Mint has worked to make dollar coins easily accepted by the public, striking dollar coins in different sizes, colors and metals. These coins have been made to circulate, and to commemorate a historic event. The allegorical (symbolic) figure of Lady Liberty has appeared most often on dollar coins but real people have been featured on them as well. President Dwight Eisenhower, Susan B. Anthony, Sacagawea and many others are part of the rich history of the U.S. dollar coin.

Directions: There are four stages to complete in The Dollar Project. The activities must be completed in order starting with Activity #1 and finishing with Activity #4. When sending in your completed activity, please do the following:

Send your completed activity to: