1996-D $1 Tennis Silver Commem – BU

The summer of 1996 marked a significant milestone in Olympic history as Atlanta, Georgia hosted the Centennial Olympic Games, celebrating 100 years of modern Olympic competition. Among the commemorative treasures minted to honor this historic occasion was the 1996-D Tennis Silver Dollar, a gleaming tribute to one of the most elegant and dynamic Olympic sports.

This commemorative silver dollar was part of an ambitious and extensive coin program created specifically for the XXVI Olympiad. The U.S. Mint produced an impressive collection of sixteen different commemorative coins, each highlighting a specific Olympic event or theme. The Tennis Silver Dollar stands among this prestigious collection, capturing the grace, power, and precision that defines this beloved sport at the Olympic level.

The 1996 Olympic coin program represented one of the most comprehensive commemorative initiatives in U.S. Mint history. While half dollars in the series celebrated swimming and soccer, and other silver dollars honored sports like rowing, high jump, and paralympics, the Tennis Dollar holds a special place for both sports enthusiasts and numismatists alike.

Designed by the talented team of James Sharpe and Thomas Rogers, this silver dollar embodies the athletic excellence and competitive spirit that defines Olympic tennis. From its dynamic depiction of a tennis player in action to the symbolic elements that honor the Centennial Games, every detail was carefully crafted to commemorate this significant moment in sports history.

Beyond its athletic theme, this coin represents a pivotal moment for the United States as host nation. The Atlanta Olympics brought the world together on American soil, showcasing not only sporting achievement but also American craftsmanship through these meticulously designed commemorative coins. For collectors, the Denver Mint mark adds another layer of significance, making this brilliant uncirculated specimen a true treasure of American numismatic artistry.

Design Features

The obverse of this stunning commemorative showcases a female tennis player captured in a powerful mid-swing motion. The athlete's form displays perfect technique as her racket connects with the ball, embodying the skill and precision required at Olympic competition levels. This dynamic pose, designed by James Sharpe, conveys both athletic grace and competitive intensity. Above the player, the inscription "USA" proudly acknowledges the host nation, while "LIBERTY" and "1996" anchor the design with patriotic significance. The obverse is further enhanced by the inclusion of the Olympic rings, symbolizing international unity through sport, and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" completes this side of the coin.

The reverse design, crafted by Thomas Rogers, features the Olympic torch, a timeless symbol of the Games' spirit and continuity. Accompanying the torch are the iconic Olympic rings and a prominent "100" that commemorates the centennial anniversary of the modern Olympic Games. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "ONE DOLLAR," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" affirm the coin's status as American legal tender, while "ATLANTA 1996" and "CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC GAMES" directly tie the piece to its historic occasion. This thoughtful arrangement of symbols and text creates a balanced composition that honors both American heritage and Olympic tradition.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: D – Denver
• Grading Service: None
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Female tennis player in mid-swing, with "USA," "LIBERTY," "1996," Olympic rings, and "IN GOD WE TRUST" inscriptions
• Reverse: Olympic torch, rings, "100" anniversary numeral, and inscriptions including "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "ONE DOLLAR," and "CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC GAMES"

Investment Appeal

The 1996-D Tennis Silver Dollar represents an exceptional investment opportunity for both passionate collectors and discerning investors. Containing 0.7734 ounces of 90% pure silver, this coin offers tangible precious metal value that serves as a foundation for its worth. However, its true investment merit extends far beyond its silver content.

As part of the limited mintage Olympic commemorative series, this coin holds significant numismatic premium that has demonstrated consistent collector demand. Its Brilliant Uncirculated condition preserves every detail of the original design, ensuring maximum eye appeal and collectibility. The Denver mint mark adds further distinction, appealing to collectors who appreciate the nuances of U.S. Mint production.

The historical significance of the Centennial Olympic Games creates an enduring legacy that supports long-term appreciation potential. Sports-themed commemoratives frequently outperform other niches due to their cross-collectible appeal – attracting both numismatists and sports memorabilia enthusiasts. For those building a comprehensive Olympic coin collection or focusing on American commemoratives, this Tennis Dollar represents an essential acquisition that combines artistic beauty, historical importance, and precious metal security in one magnificent piece.