Baby Boomer Pocket Change

Black Commemorative Coins-George Washington Carver and Booker T Washington

George Washington Carver-Obverse

George Washington Carver-Reverse

I am totally in awe with the  historical stories I am learning about coins. George Washington Carver is a clear example of a coin many folks do not know about.

But STOP! What is a commemorative coin?

The USmint.gov site provides the following explanation:

Congress authorizes commemorative coins that celebrate and honor American people,  places, events, and institutions.  Although these coins are legal tender, they are not minted for general circulation.  Each commemorative coin is produced by the United States Mint in limited quantity and is only available for a limited time.

As well as commemorating important aspects of American history and culture, these coins help raise money for important causes.  Part of the price of these coins is a surcharge that goes to organizations and projects that benefit the community.  For example, surcharges on the Capitol Visitor Center commemorative coins will help build a new visitor center under the U.S. Capitol’s East Plaza.

Since the modern commemorative coin program began in 1982, the United States Mint has raised over $418,000,000 in surcharges to help build new museums, maintain national monuments like the Vietnam War Memorial, preserve historical sites like George Washington’s home, support various Olympic programs, and much more.

Now we can go back to George Washington Carver.

Here is the story:

The George Washington Carver Commemorative coin was design by an African American designer named, Isaac Scott Hathaway. It shows the busts of both Booker T Washington and George Washington Carver. Both men were  influential Africans  Americans who made powerful contributions.

Booker T Washington was a lecturer, educator and principal of Tuskegee Institute.  George Washington Carver was an agricultural chemist who worKed to improve the economy of the south.

Of course there is soooo much more to know about these great men. I am leaving some more links on this site. But what I was shocked to find out was the controversy surrounding this coin.

The reason America struck this coin was to provide funds to promote “FREEDOM OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL.” You will notice  the big word “AMERICANISM” on the reverse of the coin. This coin is the only U.S.A. coin to bear that word.

In 1951 there was a political fear that Communists were an influential presence in the African-American population of America. Congress authorized the striking of the Half Dollar in the “interest of national defense.” As with the Booker T. Washington Half Dollar, all three mints struck this one (1951 through 1954).

Look at the Reverse of the coin:

Read more about this coin on the links below:

Coin Talk

BTW Society

US Rare Coins Investments

Most certainly, this coin is worth adding to your collection if you don’t already have one.

PS I did not give even a nano summary of the rich history of these two historical giants. Most certainly, I encourage you to read about them.

Article by Dr. Sol Taylor

I also encourage you to read this engaging article about the  designer Issac Scott Hathaway

I shared this information with my hubby, who is an artist. Mr. Hathaway had a purpose and a vision for his sculpture.

Tags: black coins, Booker T Washington, George Washington Carver

4 Comments to Black Commemorative Coins-George Washington Carver and Booker T Washington

1. 

   Where can I purchase a George Washington Carver, Booker T Washington coin from? I’ve came across 2 sites, but both look suspect!

   1st Site: COMMEMORATIVES INTERNATIONAL, LTD.

   2nd Site: Golden Eagle Coins
Erick on June 7th, 2010
2. 

   I am not familar with the sites you have mentioned but I will look at them. However, there are often offerings on Ebay. I would also look at Etsy.com, Bonanzle.com and Ebid.com
   I will contact you when I know for sure. I had an additional one and gave as a gift.
admin on July 16th, 2010
3. 

   I HAVE ONE OF THESE COINS WITH BOOKER T WASHINGTON ON IT DATING 1946 AND HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIND ITS WORTH. IF SOMEONE THERE COULD BE OF ANY HELP IN THE MATTER PLEASE FEEL FREE IN EMAILING ME. I ALSO HAVE SERVERAL SILVER DOLLARS, DIMES, NICKELS AND PENNIES AND EVEN A BUFFOLOW NICKEL. MY EMAIL IS COOKSHOUSE25@AOL.COM
ARVELT COOK on August 18th, 2010
4. 

   I have one of theses coins left if enterested let me know
robert gomez on October 12th, 2010

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