West Point Bicentennial Commemorative Coin
- Year of Issue: 2002
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 103-328
Background
The Tribute
On March 16, 1802, President Thomas Jefferson signed into law a bill of the United States Congress authorizing the establishment of “a military academy to be located at West Point in the State of New York.” During 2002, the Bicentennial of the founding of the United States Military Academy were observed at West Point and at other designated places throughout the world.
The purpose of the Bicentennial is “to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the founding of the United States Military Academy by celebrating its contributions to the Nation and the people of the world.”
About the Coin
This coin was produced by the Department of the Treasury, United States Mint, to commemorate the bicentennial of the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY.
This coin is legal tender of the United States and was available from March 16, 2002 through March 16, 2003.
Recipient Organization: Association of Graduates
The proceeds from the surcharges on these coins assist the Association of Graduates' efforts to provide for the academic, military, physical, moral and ethical development programs of the Corp of Cadets.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, by Mint sculptor-engraver James Ferrell, depicts a cadet color guard in parade with the Military Academy's Washington Hall and Cadet Chapel in the background.
The reverse, by United States Mint sculptor-engraver John Mercanti , depicts the United States Military Academy Bicentennial logo.
Obverse Inscriptions
- 1802
- LIBERTY
- 2002
- IN GOD WE TRUST
Reverse Inscriptions
- 1802
- WEST POINT
- 2002
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- E PLURIBUS UNUM
- ONE DOLLAR
- BICENTENNIAL
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
Obverse- Designer: James Ferrell
- Designer: John Mercanti