US Commemorative Dollar Uncirculated 2001-P Capitol Visitor Center

Washington DC began construction on the Capitol Visitor Center on June 20, 2000 and opened to the public on December 2, 2008. Due to the touristic nature of the United States Capitol building, it was decided to build an annex that could facilitate thousands of tourists entering the legislative body’s building. It was built to hold roughly 4,000 tourists at its peak and even has a 450 seat auditorium for tourist videos about the structure. Not only does this complex have its value for tourism, it also serves a practical purpose. The Capitol Visitor Center also has many new meeting rooms and one room large enough for a House Committee meeting.

On its obverse, one can see the old US Capitol building as it looked when it was first constructed in 1800. By this time, the building only housed the Senate, so both houses shared this complex. The south wing for the house of Representatives was constructed eleven years later. As the coin shows, there is no dome on the original Capitol building. One can see the US Capitol building as it is seen today in the background of the obverse. The obverse was designed by Marika Somogyi. The reverse of the coin shows a modern interpretation of the double eagle gold coin. The ribbon across the eagle’s shield reads “US Capitol Visitor Center”. The reverse of the coin was designed by veteran Mint engraver, John Mercanti.

The 2001 Uncirculated Capitol Visitor Center Commemorative Silver dollar has a mintage of 35,380. This is only a fraction of the amount minted as compared to the proof mintage of this year’s issue. This coin is designed to commemorate the opening of the visitor center which is located on the East front of the building and serves as a gathering point for tourists. If you have any questions regarding this or any commemorative coin, please call our knowledgeable staff at (800) 735-1311.

• Denomination: $1
• Year: 2001
• Diameter: 26.5 mm
• Mint Mark: P
• Thickness: 2 mm
• Grade: Ungraded