American Innovation® $1 Coin – Virginia
- Year of Issue: 2021
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 115-197
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Background
The American Innovation $1 Coin representing Virginia recognizes the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Opened in 1964, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel connects Southeastern Virginia to the entire Delmarva Peninsula.
Spanning more than 17 miles, the bridge tunnel complex consists of 12 miles of low-level trestle, two one-mile-long tunnels, two bridges, two miles of causeway, and four man-made islands. The unique structure is considered the world’s largest bridge-tunnel complex and was designated one of seven engineering wonders of the modern world.
Characteristics
The obverse (heads) design features a dramatic representation of the Statue of Liberty in profile. The obverse also includes a privy mark of a stylized gear, representing industry and innovation.
The reverse (tails) design depicts a view of the Chesapeake Bay Tunnel as a cross section cut away, illustrating the ingenuity involved in constructing it.
Obverse Inscriptions
- IN GOD WE TRUST
- $1
Reverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- VIRGINIA
Incused (edge) Inscriptions
- 2021
- Mint mark
- E PLURIBUS UNUM
Mint and Mint Mark
Specifications
| Composition | Weight | Diameter | Thickness | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Manganese-Brass
88.5% Cu
6% Zn
3.5% Mn
2% Ni
|
8.1 g |
1.043 in.
26.49 mm
|
2.00 mm | Edge-Lettering |
Artist Information
Obverse- Sculptor: Phebe Hemphill, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Justin Kunz, Artistic Infusion Program
- Sculptor: John P. McGraw, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Matt Swaim, Artistic Infusion Program