The 2009 William Henry Harrison Presidential Dollar coin is a famous coin. It celebrates the 9th President of the United States. This coin, becoming a part of the Presidential Dollar Coin Program, gives respect to William Henry Harrison, an important personality in American history. Rare coins wanted by collectors, like this one, are sought after due to their historical significance. The following article will take you through every aspect of this coin, from its value and rarity to its history and design, so you easily understand why collectors become attracted to it.
The William Henry Harrison Presidential Dollar is the ninth issue in the Presidential Dollar Coin Program, which was struck on February 19, 2009. William Henry Harrison, president of the United States for only 32 days before he passed away in office, is made famous by this coin. He became an important personality in American history after his brief tenure, and coins with his portrait are valued by collectors. The coin, which comes in uncirculated and proof variations, has been carefully designed and has a unique look because of the mixture of metals used in the making of it.
History of 2009 William Henry Harrison Presidential Coin
William Henry Harrison was born on February 9, 1773, and became the 9th president of the United States in 1841. His presidency, however, was tragically short-lived as he passed away just 32 days after taking office, marking the shortest presidential term in U.S. history. Before his presidency, Harrison had a long military and political career, gaining fame for his leadership in the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811. The 2009 dollar coin, which is considered one of the most valuable Presidential Dollar Coins, was minted to honor his contributions to American history and his unique place as the first president to die while in office.
Specifications
- Composition: 88.5% Copper, 6% Zinc, 3.5% Manganese, 2% Nickel
- Weight: 8.10 grams
- Diameter: 26.50 millimeters
- Edge: Lettered with inscriptions including “E Pluribus Unum,” “In God We Trust,” the year of mintage, and the mintmark (P for Philadelphia or D for Denver)
- Mintage: 2,809,452 coins (San Francisco Mint for proof versions)
- Mint Locations: Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), San Francisco (S for proof coins)
Design
Obverse
William Henry Harrison’s portrait shows on the coin’s obverse or front side. His name is inscribed “William Henry Harrison” over this picture. The term “9th President 1841,” which represents his position as president and the year when he took office, is written under the image. Joseph Menna, an excellent sculptor at the U.S. Mint, designed the portrait.
Reverse
Don Everhart’s design of the Statue of Liberty is shown on the coin’s reverse or back side. The face value of the coin is denoted by the “$1” symbol below the Statue of Liberty’s right arm, which she carries with pride. The coin has a patriotic look due to its design the words “United States of America” turn around the image on it. Every coin in the Presidential Dollar series includes the same design.
Types of 2009 William Henry Harrison Presidential Coin
The William Henry Harrison Presidential Dollar has two main types:
- Uncirculated Versions: These coins were struck for general circulation and are available from the Philadelphia (P) and Denver (D) mints. These uncirculated coins are generally in excellent condition if kept proper way.
- Proof Versions: Proof coins are in high quality, struck at the San Francisco Mint (S). These are highly demanded coins because of their stunning mirror-like finish with fine details by collectors. The 2009-S William Henry Harrison DCAM (Deep Cameo) proof coin is admired for its sharp contrast in the raised design and the background.
Rarity and Condition
A large number of uncirculated coins are still affordable, but proof and high-grade coins are valued more. One example of a coin that has grown in value over time is a William Henry Harrison identified MS69 (Mint State 69) that was for $456 at auction in 2019 before going on sale for $1,250 on eBay, according to the Coin Value Checker. Coins of higher grades—especially those which are almost perfect—are usually rarer and more expensive.
Errors
The chance of errors is one of the most interesting aspects regarding collecting Presidential Dollar coins, including the William Henry Harrison Dollar. Some coins have missing or misplaced edge text, so collectors highly value them. Also, the coin may gain value from variations in the placement of the edge inscription (Position A and Position B). When the obverse (front) side has its face down, Position A denotes that the text can be read; when the obverse is facing up, Position B denotes that it can be read.
Value of 2009 William Henry Harrison Presidential Coin
The value of the William Henry Harrison Presidential Dollar depends on its condition, type, and any unique characteristics like errors. Uncirculated coins from the Philadelphia and Denver mints are usually reasonable, going from $2 to $10. However, proof versions, especially those graded at high levels can be more valuable. According to demand and market trends, coins in excellent condition, like the earlier noted MS69, could have values above $1,000.
Also Read – 2008 John Quincy Adams Presidential Coin: A Complete Guide
Conclusion
The 2009 William Henry Harrison Presidential Dollar honors an important personality in American history and is an attractive coin. This coin, having its historical importance and attractive design, has a unique place in any collection, whether it is in proof or uncirculated condition. Due to its unique design, rarity, and the possibility of problems, collectors consider this coin greatly, contributing to its attraction. The William Henry Harrison coin is an important and important part of American numismatic history, particularly in front of the increasing demand for Presidential Dollars.