Christa McAuliffe Silver Dollar
- Year of Issue: 2021
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 116–65
Background
The 2021 Christa McAuliffe Silver Dollar recognizes the former social studies teacher who in 1985, was chosen to be the first participant in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Teacher in Space program. On January 28, 1986, McAuliffe and six astronauts were tragically killed when Space Shuttle Challenger exploded after launch.
Recipient Organization: FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology)
Surcharges in the amount of $10 for each silver dollar sold are authorized to be paid to the FIRST® robotics program for the purpose of engaging and inspiring young people, through mentor-based programs, to become leaders in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.Commemorative Coin Surcharges
Commemorative coin programs are created by acts of Congress to honor a person, place, or event. Surcharges from the sales of these coins help fund a variety of organizations and projects that benefit the public. Commemorative coins are only available from the United States Mint for a limited time, as specified by public law.
Characteristics
The obverse (heads) design depicts a portrait of Christa McAuliffe with a hopeful gaze.
The reverse (tails) design depicts McAuliffe as a teacher, smiling as she points forward and upward, symbolizing the future. Three high school-age students look on with wonder. The seven stars pay tribute to those who perished in the Challenger tragedy.
Obverse Inscriptions
- CHRISTA McAULIFFE
- 2021
- LIBERTY
- IN GOD WE TRUST
Reverse Inscriptions
- I TOUCH THE FUTRE.
- I TEACH.
- E PLURIBUS UNUM
- ONE DOLLAR
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
Obverse- Sculptor: Phebe Hemphill, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Laurie Musser, Artistic Infusion Program
- Sculptor: Joseph Menna, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Emily Damstra, Artistic Infusion Program