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The 2018-W Breast Cancer Awareness Gold $5 Commemorative in uncirculated condition is a modern U.S. Mint release that represents both a powerful message of hope and a significant achievement in numismatic innovation. Authorized by Congress under Public Law 114-148, the coin was issued to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer research and education through the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. What distinguishes this coin in the annals of U.S. coinage history is that it was the first gold coin ever issued by the United States Mint to feature a pink hue. This distinct coloration was achieved by using a unique gold alloy blend, adding an emotional and symbolic dimension to the coin's message while showcasing the Mint's technical prowess.
The obverse design, created by artist Emily Damstra and sculpted by U.S. Mint Sculptor-Engraver Phebe Hemphill, is deeply moving in both its composition and symbolism. It features the left-facing bust of a woman with a scarf on her head, representing both those currently battling breast cancer and survivors. To her right is a butterfly in flight, symbolizing hope, transformation, and the human spirit’s resilience. The inscriptions include “LIBERTY,” “2018,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the “W” mintmark for the West Point Mint. The striking simplicity and emotional depth of this image have earned the coin widespread praise for capturing the essence of the cause it commemorates. In uncirculated condition, the sharp relief and matte surfaces preserve the artist’s intent with clarity and grace.
The reverse of the coin, also designed by Emily Damstra and sculpted by Renata Gordon, complements the obverse with a symbolic representation of strength and community. It features a tiger swallowtail butterfly in flight alongside inscriptions that include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and the denomination “FIVE DOLLARS.” The butterfly, repeated from the obverse, serves as a unifying element between the two sides and reinforces the idea of change and beauty emerging from struggle. The composition is well-balanced and clean, offering a dignified and hopeful image. On the uncirculated issue, the surfaces are satin-like with even fields and softly frosted devices, offering a uniform and elegant presentation that differs distinctly from the proof version’s high-contrast finish.
Each of the 2018-W Breast Cancer Awareness $5 gold coins was struck at the West Point Mint, renowned for producing some of the highest-quality modern U.S. coinage. What truly sets this coin apart is the alloy used to produce its distinctive pink hue. Rather than the standard 90% gold, 6% silver, and 4% copper alloy used in previous commemorative gold coins, the Mint developed a new blend of 85% gold, 14.8% copper, and 0.2% silver. This unique mix allowed the coin to take on a soft pink color without the use of plating or artificial coloring. This innovation not only marked a first for the Mint but also demonstrated its capacity to adapt its manufacturing process in support of a cause with deep personal meaning to millions of Americans.
The maximum authorized mintage for the 2018-W Breast Cancer Awareness Uncirculated Gold $5 coin was 50,000 pieces across both proof and uncirculated finishes. Of that total, only 5,925 uncirculated coins were sold, making it one of the lowest-mintage gold commemoratives in the modern era. This low mintage significantly enhances the coin’s long-term desirability among both collectors and investors. The relatively small number of surviving examples in pristine uncirculated condition further underscores the importance of preserving and acquiring certified examples that have been professionally graded. These coins not only serve as a tribute to breast cancer survivors and those lost to the disease but also as one of the most unique physical expressions of modern numismatic craftsmanship.
The uncirculated version of the 2018-W Breast Cancer Awareness Gold $5 coin differs notably in appearance from its proof counterpart. Rather than the mirrored fields and frosted devices of a proof, the uncirculated coin exhibits a uniform matte finish that enhances the subtle features of the design. The satin texture allows for a soft interplay of light across the surfaces, particularly striking in combination with the coin’s pink coloration. In certified examples graded by PCGS or NGC as MS70 or MS69, collectors will find virtually flawless surfaces, sharp edge definition, and a well-struck rendering of the butterfly and portrait elements. The overall presentation is modern, elegant, and imbued with symbolic depth that transcends its monetary face value.
The coin’s release was accompanied by a broader commemorative program that included a silver dollar and a clad half dollar, each with similar themes and coordinated designs. However, it is the pink gold $5 coin that drew the most attention due to its uniqueness and its unprecedented use of a non-standard alloy. Unlike most commemorative programs where the gold issue is purchased primarily for its intrinsic value, the 2018 Breast Cancer Awareness coin attracted attention from those outside the usual numismatic community, including breast cancer survivors, medical professionals, and advocacy groups. As a result, many examples were acquired as keepsakes, and far fewer remain in pristine collector-grade condition. Full rolls or matched sets of uncirculated coins are particularly rare.
Collectors who value coins with both artistic integrity and meaningful context regard the 2018-W Breast Cancer Awareness Gold $5 as a standout among modern commemoratives. Its innovative composition, low mintage, and emotional resonance make it one of the most distinctive gold issues produced by the U.S. Mint in recent memory. Furthermore, its alignment with a cause that affects millions gives the coin a philanthropic significance seldom matched in modern coinage. The portion of proceeds allocated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation ensured that the coin had real-world impact, translating numismatic support into tangible contributions to medical research and public awareness.
The importance of acquiring the 2018-W Breast Cancer Awareness Gold $5 coin in uncirculated condition cannot be overstated. While both the uncirculated and proof versions are low mintage, the uncirculated strike’s lower sales figures mean that it is substantially rarer in top-graded condition. Certified MS70 examples, especially those bearing special labels or housed in first-release holders, are increasingly sought after as modern commemorative specialists build more complete and high-grade collections. These coins, when properly stored, retain both aesthetic brilliance and value potential. Whether displayed as a centerpiece or stored securely for future generations, this coin delivers a compelling combination of design, rarity, and meaning.
The Certified 2018-W Breast Cancer Awareness Uncirculated Gold $5 coin remains one of the most powerful and innovative modern commemoratives ever issued by the U.S. Mint. Combining emotional symbolism with technical advancement, the coin achieves what few others do—it serves as a beautiful object, a collector’s treasure, and a symbol of shared human experience. Its pink hue, achieved through a groundbreaking gold alloy, pays tribute to the strength and resilience of millions affected by breast cancer. Its low mintage and high production standards ensure its long-term significance in the numismatic community. As both a statement of support and a standout collectible, this coin holds an enduring place in the history of American coinage.