American Innovation 2023 $1 Coin Reverse Proof Set

The American Innovation® $1 Coin Reverse Proof Program is a multi-year series that highlights distinctive reverse (tails) designs celebrating America’s ingenuity and the pioneering efforts of individuals or groups from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories.

One of the nation’s greatest strengths is its entrepreneurial spirit, which fuels remarkable innovation and discovery. The U.S. Mint proudly honors this spirit with the 2023 American Innovation $1 Coin Reverse Proof Set™.

This set includes four stunning coins, each encased in a clear plastic lens and presented in a beautifully designed package. It celebrates significant American innovations and innovators from Ohio, Louisiana, Indiana, and Mississippi, making it a perfect addition to any collection or a thoughtful gift for special occasions.

The reverse proof coins feature frosted backgrounds and brilliant, mirror-like finishes, creating a striking contrast.

Coin Designs:
Obverse (Heads): Each coin features a dramatic representation of the Statue of Liberty in profile, along with the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “$1.” The design by Justin Kunz includes a privy mark of a stylized gear, symbolizing industry and innovation. The edge-incused inscriptions read “2023,” “S” mint mark, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”

Ohio: This design depicts two strong hands clasped together, symbolizing the support and strength required along the Underground Railroad. A chain snaps, representing the hope for freedom. Inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “UNDERGROUND RAILROAD,” and “OHIO.” Ohio played a pivotal role in this network, serving as the southernmost free state bordering slave states.

Louisiana: Features a Higgins Boat deployed during World War II, with its innovative landing ramp open. Inscriptions read “UNITED STATES of AMERICA,” “THE HIGGINS BOAT,” and “LOUISIANA.” The Higgins Boat revolutionized military landings and was key to the success of the Normandy invasion.

Indiana: Showcases a series of vehicles representing Indiana’s automotive innovations, from early gas automobiles to modern Indy race cars. Inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “INDIANA.” Indiana has a rich history in automobile manufacturing and played a significant role in car culture and innovation.

Mississippi: Depicts a pair of human lungs, with a surgical assistant passing forceps during the first human lung transplant surgery. Inscriptions are “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “FIRST HUMAN LUNG TRANSPLANT,” and “MISSISSIPPI.” This groundbreaking surgery, performed by Dr. James D. Hardy in 1963, marked a significant advancement in lung transplantation and medical therapy.