1995-P $1 Special Olympics Silver Commem – Proof

The 1995-P $1 Special Olympics Silver Commemorative Proof coin represents a significant milestone in American numismatic history, marking the first time a living woman was featured on U.S. coinage. This groundbreaking silver dollar honors Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the visionary founder of the Special Olympics movement, who transformed the lives of millions of individuals with intellectual disabilities worldwide.

The story of this commemorative coin begins with Shriver's remarkable journey. In 1962, she established a summer day camp in her own backyard, creating a space where people with intellectual disabilities could participate in sports and physical activities. This humble beginning evolved into the first International Special Olympics Games in 1968, challenging prevailing beliefs about the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

By 1995, when this coin was minted, the Special Olympics had grown into a global phenomenon operating in over 172 countries. The commemorative silver dollar was issued to celebrate this extraordinary achievement and to honor Shriver's unwavering dedication to creating opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities to showcase their talents and abilities on a world stage.

The decision to feature Eunice Kennedy Shriver on this coin broke new ground in American coinage. While the U.S. Mint had previously depicted historical female figures, this marked the first instance of a living woman being honored on official U.S. currency. This distinction underscores the profound impact of Shriver's work and the exceptional nature of her contributions to society.

The coin was released in both proof and uncirculated versions, with the proof coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. With a limited mintage of just 351,764 pieces, these proof specimens represent not only a piece of numismatic history but also embody the spirit of inclusion and empowerment that defines the Special Olympics movement. The coin serves as a lasting tribute to Shriver's vision that continues to inspire athletes, families, and communities around the world.

Design Features

The obverse of the 1995-P Special Olympics Silver Dollar features a dignified portrait of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of the Special Olympics movement. Her profile is rendered with remarkable detail, capturing both her determination and compassionate spirit. Surrounding her portrait are the inscriptions "SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES," "IN GOD WE TRUST," "1995," and "LIBERTY." This design, crafted by T. James Ferrell, pays homage to Shriver's revolutionary vision that transformed societal perceptions of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

The reverse, designed by Thomas D. Rogers, displays a rose—symbolizing growth and beauty—alongside a Special Olympics medal, representing achievement and excellence. The powerful quote from Eunice Kennedy Shriver herself, "AS WE HOPE FOR THE BEST IN THEM, HOPE IS REBORN IN US," encircles these symbols, capturing the profound impact of the Special Olympics movement. Additional inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "ONE DOLLAR," completing this thoughtfully designed tribute to an extraordinary humanitarian legacy.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Philadelphia
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Portrait of Eunice Kennedy Shriver with inscriptions "SPECIAL OLYMPICS WORLD GAMES," "IN GOD WE TRUST," "1995," and "LIBERTY."
• Reverse: Rose and Special Olympics medal with the quote "AS WE HOPE FOR THE BEST IN THEM, HOPE IS REBORN IN US" and inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "ONE DOLLAR."

Investment Appeal

The 1995-P $1 Special Olympics Silver Commemorative Proof coin offers exceptional value to both collectors and investors. Its historical significance as the first U.S. coin to feature a living female figure establishes it as a landmark piece in American numismatic history. With its limited mintage of just 351,764 pieces and the passage of nearly three decades since its issuance, this coin has become increasingly difficult to acquire in pristine condition.

Struck in 90% fine silver with a weight of 26.73 grams (0.7734 oz), the coin provides tangible precious metal value while its proof quality ensures stunning visual appeal with frosted designs rising dramatically over mirror-like fields. The coin's connection to the globally recognized Special Olympics movement adds another dimension of appeal that transcends typical commemorative issues.

For numismatists building collections of modern commemoratives or those focused on groundbreaking designs in American coinage, this piece represents a crucial addition. Its combination of historical importance, limited availability, precious metal content, and exceptional craftsmanship makes it not just a collectible coin but a meaningful investment in a piece of American cultural heritage.