WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) today announced that the United States Mint has unveiled the designs of the of the Star-Spangled Banner Commemorative Coins. On August 16, 2010, President Barack Obama signed a law — cosponsored by Senator Cardin and U.S. Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-2) — directing the U.S. Mint to create coins commemorating the 200th anniversary of the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner. The gold and silver coin designs are emblematic of the War of 1812, particularly the Battle of Baltimore that formed the basis for the lyrics of “The Star-Spangled Banner” National Anthem.
“As Marylanders we are all proud of the role our state has played in our nation’s history and the creation of these commemorative coins will make it possible for us to bring greater attention to this bicentennial celebration,” said Senator Cardin.
“This coin is a great honor and the product of years of hard work in an extremely competitive process,” added Congressman Ruppersberger. “It will help raise much-needed funds so we can properly celebrate the role Marylanders played in our nation’s fight to victory and share that rich history with the rest of the country.”
“The designs for the Star-Spangled Banner Commemorative Coins unveiled today honor Maryland’s pivotal role in winning ‘The Second War of Independence’ – the War of 1812 – with the Battle of Baltimore at Fort McHenry and inspiring the Star-Spangled Banner,” said Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley. “These coins are a remarkable public tribute to the people, stories and history of Maryland.”
The U.S. Mint will produce 100,000 gold coins and 500,000 silver coins. Prices for the coins will be announced in early 2012; coins will go on sale in March and will be sold only in 2012. Coin surcharges will provide up to $8.5 million in matching funds to the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission to support bicentennial activities, assist in educational outreach, and preserve sites and structures relating to the War of 1812.
All four Star-Spangled Banner Commemorative Coin designs were approved by the Secretary of the Treasury on November 3, 2011, at the recommendation of the U.S. Mint, after consultation with the Maryland War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, and the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee.
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