Commems Collection Modern: What If? 1973 American Revolution Bicentennial - Alternate Approaches

Just when it seemed like a realistic target was in sight...

Liberty Bell at Independence National Historical Park (Philadelphia)

(Image Source: Library of Congress, Prints and Photograph Division. Public Domain.)

Though May 1973 began with a clear Bicentennial coinage approach favored by the United States ("US") Treasury (see: What If? 1973 American Revolution Bicentennial - The Evolution Continues), it ended with a pair of Senators proposing alternate ways of moving forward.

The first coin proposal, introduced by James Albertus McClure (R-ID) for himself and Frank Forrester Church (D-ID), called for the "issuance during calendar year 1976 minor coins and coins authorized under section 101 (a) of the Coinage Act of 1965 which shall bear upon both sides suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions iu commemoration of the bicentennial of the American Involution."

The Treasury had previously expressed its opposition to such a plan, concerned over the potential of creating a coin shortage by causing high-demand coinage (i.e., lower denomination minor coins) that could be subject to hoarding by collectors/souvenir seekers. Nevertheless, Senator McClure moved ahead with his concept for Bicentennial coinage.

The bill also included provisions for 40% Silver Clad versions of the Dollar and Half Dollar to be struck for sale to collectors; the coins were to feature an 80% Silver Clad layer. Total weight for the Half Dollar was to be 12.296 grams (4.919 grams Silver and 7.378 grams Copper); for the Dollar, the total weight was to be 24.592 grams with 9.837 grams of Silver and 14.755 grams of Copper.

All coins specified in the bill were to be Calendar Year 1976 issues. The bill also included a non-specific provision that authorized a 1976-dated gold coin to be struck if determined to be a good idea by the Secretary of the Treasury.requested by the

Upon introduction, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs. Its journey in Congress ended at the Committee stage.

On the same day, Senator McClure (R-ID) - for himself and Senator Church (D-ID) once again, introduced a second Bicentennial coin bill - one with very different provisions.

The second bill DID NOT include the smaller denomination coins (cent, five-cents, 10-cents and 25-cents coins), and focused just on the Half Dollar and Dollar. A Copper-Nickel (CuNi) Clad Half Dollar was specified, along with a 40% Silver Clad Dollar coin.

The coins were intended for circulation, with 150 million (or more) of each denomination specified for production. The two coins were to feature, on each of their sides, "suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions in commemoration of the bicentennial of the American Revolution as determined by (he Secretary [of the Treasury]."

The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, but did not progress further.


I've got a batch of House bills coming up!


For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more "What If?" stories, see: Commems Collection