Now that my classic-era What If? stories series is complete, I've decided to relate a few stories about coin proposals that didn't quite make it to the Congressional starting blocks.
In researching the classic era of US commemorative coinage over the years, I've occasionally encountered references to suggestions / proposals for a new commemorative coin that did not progress to a bill or resolution being introduced in Congress. I categorize these "Phantom" / Exploratory endeavors into "Official" and "Personal."
By "Official" I mean that the potential sponsor / beneficiary of a coin made inquiries at the Treasury, the US Mint and/or Congress into the coin's feasibility. I
do not include in this group ideas for potential commemorative coins that were created by individuals and sent into a hobby magazine (i.e., "Personal" proposals). Many folks have had ideas for US commemorative coins over the years - a countless number - but such ideas absent of formal / official backing tend to fade away as quickly as they originate.
I will present a short series on several "Official" Phantom coin proposals that I have come across. I am in no way suggesting my grouping represents all such coin proposals ever explored, but they do represent those that I have seen published in the records of the US Congress and / or a State Legislature. The group I've assembled consists of coin proposals that are connected to an official organization that sought to recall, honor and perpetuate the legacy of a person, place, thing or event. I believe them to have a close association with my What If? stories, and, thus, wanted to present them here with the others.
For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including more What If? and What If? Phantom stories, see:
Commems Collection.
Posted 04/24/2023 07:27 am
