On August 27, 2015, the United States Mint introduced the 2015 Lady Bird Johnson First Spouse 1/2 oz $10 Gold Coin. This special coin is made from .9999 gold and has a limited mintage of only 10,000 coins. It was produced at the West Point Mint and features a “W” mintmark. The coin is available in two finishes: Proof and Uncirculated. Let’s explore the history, design, and significance of this unique coin.
Overview of the Lady Bird Johnson Coin
The Lady Bird Johnson $10 Gold Coin is the last gold coin released in the U.S. Mint’s First Spouse Gold Coin Program for 2015. This program is linked to the Presidential dollar series. In total, there are 39 First Spouse coins in this collection, with Lady Bird Johnson’s coin being the 36th.
Who Was Lady Bird Johnson?
Lady Bird Johnson, born Claudia Alta Taylor in 1912 in Karnack, Texas, played an important role in American history. She got her nickname when she was an infant. Lady Bird graduated from the University of Texas in 1930 and earned a degree in journalism in 1934.
In 1934, she married Lyndon Baines Johnson, who would later become the 36th President of the United States. With her support, Lyndon won elections and started his political career. Lady Bird also invested her inheritance in businesses, becoming the first First Spouse in U.S. history to become a millionaire through her own efforts.
Lady Bird Johnson’s Impact as First Lady
As First Lady from 1963 to 1969, Lady Bird focused on beautifying Washington, D.C., and improving the nation’s highways. Her efforts to enhance the environment are reflected in the coin’s reverse design. She also advocated for civil rights and was a strong supporter of her husband during his presidency.
Design Features of the Coin
Obverse Design
The front of the coin, known as the obverse, features a bust of Lady Bird Johnson. The design is based on an official White House portrait and a photograph. Here are some details about the obverse:
- Inscriptions:
- “LADY BIRD JOHNSON” appears at the top.
- The national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is on the left.
- The word “LIBERTY,” the year “2015,” and the “W” mintmark are on the right.
- Beneath her neckline, it says “36th” and the dates “1963-1969,” marking her time in the White House.
- Designers:
- The portrait was created by Linda Fox, with her initials “LLF” on the left.
- Michael Gaudioso, a U.S. Mint sculptor, has his initials on the right.
Reverse Design
The back of the coin, known as the reverse, features the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument. The design emphasizes Lady Bird’s commitment to beautifying the nation:
- Inscriptions:
- “BEAUTIFY OUR CITIES, PARKS AND HIGHWAYS” is at the top.
- Around the top, it reads “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
- At the bottom, it includes “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” the face value of $10, the weight of 1/2 oz, and the purity of .9999 fine gold.
- Designers:
- Chris Costello created the reverse design, with his initials “CTC” found near the inscription “UNUM.”
- The engraving was done by Renata Gordon, whose initials are located above the number “1” in $10.
Coin Specifications
Here’s a quick look at the specifications of the 2015 Lady Bird Johnson $10 Gold Coin:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Year of Issue | 2015 |
| Denomination | Gold $10 |
| Mint Mark | W |
| Maximum Mintage | 10,000 |
| Alloy | .9999 Gold |
| Weight | 1/2 oz |
| Diameter | 26.5 mm |
| Thickness | 1.88 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Obverse Designer | Linda Fox, Michael Gaudioso |
| Reverse Designer | Chris Costello, Renata Gordon |
Conclusion
The 2015 Lady Bird Johnson First Spouse $10 Gold Coin is more than just a piece of currency; it represents a significant part of American history. From its beautiful design to its limited mintage, this coin is a testament to Lady Bird Johnson’s legacy and her contributions as First Lady. Collectors appreciate not only the coin’s beauty but also its rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting, the Lady Bird Johnson coin is a remarkable addition to any collection, reminding us of the importance of both art and history in our everyday lives.