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The Apollo 11 50th Anniversary 2019-W Proof $5 Gold Coin commemorates a momentous event in human history: the first successful manned moon landing. Issued by the United States Mint, this coin celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, which marked humanity's first steps on the lunar surface. On July 20, 1969, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin made history as they walked on the moon, a feat that was both a scientific triumph and a significant milestone in space exploration. This coin serves as a tribute to that achievement, capturing the spirit of exploration and the technological advancements of the era.
The coin's design is a masterful representation of the Apollo 11 mission's historic landing. On the obverse, the coin features an intricate depiction of the lunar module descending towards the moon's surface. This design, created by artist Gary Cooper, shows the lunar module in mid-descent with the lunar landscape visible below. The depiction is both detailed and dramatic, capturing the excitement and significance of the landing. The obverse also includes inscriptions such as "2019," "APOLLO 11," and "50th ANNIVERSARY," which highlight the occasion being commemorated.
The reverse side of the coin features an image of the lunar surface, complete with the footprints left by Armstrong and Aldrin. This design, by artist Emily Damstra, emphasizes the human aspect of the mission, showcasing the impact of the astronauts' presence on the moon. The footprints, symbolizing the historic achievement, are set against a backdrop of the lunar terrain. The reverse also includes the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," along with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and the coin's denomination, "FIVE DOLLARS." The combination of these elements creates a powerful and evocative image that captures the essence of the Apollo 11 mission.
Minted at the West Point Mint, the coin is produced in 22-karat gold, ensuring both its high value and its enduring quality. The use of gold as the metal for this coin reflects its commemorative nature and the importance of the event it celebrates. The West Point Mint is renowned for its high-quality coin production, and this coin is no exception, featuring precise details and exceptional craftsmanship.
The mintage of the Apollo 11 50th Anniversary 2019-W Proof $5 Gold Coin was limited to ensure its exclusivity and appeal to collectors. The United States Mint typically sets mintage limits for commemorative coins to maintain their rarity and to preserve their value in the numismatic market. For the Apollo 11 coin, the mintage was capped at a specific number, making it a sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The limited mintage contributes to the coin's desirability and its status as a significant piece of American numismatic history.
In terms of condition, the coin is graded as a Proof, which indicates that it was struck using a special process to create a high-quality, mirror-like finish. Proof coins are known for their sharp details and reflective surfaces, which are achieved through a meticulous minting process involving specially polished dies and planchets. The Apollo 11 50th Anniversary coin, being a Proof, exhibits these characteristics, making it a standout piece for collectors who value both its historical significance and its aesthetic quality.
The Apollo 11 50th Anniversary 2019-W Proof $5 Gold Coin represents a significant milestone in space exploration and numismatic history. It commemorates the achievements of the Apollo 11 mission, honoring the astronauts who made the historic lunar landing possible. The coin's design, minting, and limited mintage combine to create a valuable and memorable tribute to one of humanity's greatest achievements. As a piece of commemorative currency, it not only captures the essence of the Apollo 11 mission but also serves as a lasting reminder of the spirit of exploration and innovation that defined the era.