2002-W $1 West Point Silver Commem – BU

The 2002-W $1 West Point Silver Commemorative Dollar stands as a testament to one of America’s most prestigious military institutions. On March 16, 1802, President Thomas Jefferson signed into law the founding of the United States Military Academy at West Point, establishing what would become the cornerstone of American military leadership and excellence. Two centuries later, this commemorative silver dollar celebrates that momentous occasion and the legacy that followed.

When you hold this coin, you're touching a piece of American military history. The grounds of West Point have produced some of the nation's most distinguished military leaders—Robert E. Lee, Ulysses S. Grant, George Patton, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Douglas MacArthur all walked the halls of this revered institution. These graduates form what West Pointers affectionately call "The Long Gray Line," a phrase that captures the unbroken chain of dedication to the academy's unwavering motto: "Duty, Honor, Country."

The significance of this commemorative issue extends beyond mere celebration. The West Point Military Academy has shaped American military strategy and leadership for over two centuries, influencing the outcome of every major American conflict since its founding. The academy's graduates have not only led armies but have also served as presidents, industry leaders, and pioneers in various fields.

Fittingly, these commemorative silver dollars were struck at the U.S. Mint's West Point facility, bearing the distinctive "W" mint mark that connects the coin directly to the institution it honors. This connection makes the 2002-W West Point Bicentennial Silver Dollar particularly special among modern commemoratives—it was produced at the very location it celebrates.

With a limited mintage that saw only 103,201 of these Brilliant Uncirculated specimens released, this commemorative has both historical significance and numismatic scarcity. The coin serves as both a collector's item and a tangible link to two centuries of American military tradition, leadership, and excellence.

Design Features

The obverse, designed by T. James Ferrell, depicts a powerful tableau of five cadets representing the Academy Color Guard in parade formation, marching proudly toward the viewer. This dynamic scene captures the discipline and precision that West Point instills in its cadets. Behind the marching cadets stand two iconic West Point structures: the gothic-inspired Cadet Chapel with its distinctive spires and Washington Hall, the central dining facility where cadets gather daily. The design is framed by the inscriptions "1802," "LIBERTY," and "2002," marking the bicentennial celebration, while "IN GOD WE TRUST" appears to the right, completing this tribute to tradition and service.

The reverse, sculpted by John Mercanti, features the official West Point Bicentennial logo—a medieval-inspired plumed helmet with a sword positioned behind it, symbols that evoke centuries of martial tradition and honor. This central image is encircled by the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "ONE DOLLAR" in an inner ring. The outer periphery proudly displays "1802 * WEST POINT * 2002 * BICENTENNIAL," cementing the coin's commemorative purpose. The design balances modern commemorative styling with classical military symbolism, creating a lasting tribute to the academy's significance in American history.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: W – West Point
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Five-figure cadet color guard in parade formation with Washington Hall and Cadet Chapel in the background.
• Reverse: West Point Bicentennial logo featuring a plumed helmet with sword, surrounded by inscriptions marking the 200th anniversary.

Investment Appeal

The 2002-W $1 West Point Silver Commemorative represents an exceptional opportunity for both collectors and investors. With its 90% silver composition weighing 0.7734 ounces, this coin offers intrinsic precious metal value that provides a hedge against inflation—a characteristic highly valued in today's uncertain economic climate.

What sets this commemorative apart is its limited mintage of just 103,201 pieces in Brilliant Uncirculated condition. This relative scarcity, combined with strong demand from both military history enthusiasts and numismatists, has created a steady appreciation potential that transcends mere metal value.

The coin's historical significance cannot be overstated. As a celebration of America's premier military academy—an institution that has shaped national defense and leadership for over two centuries—this commemorative has enduring relevance that enhances its collectible appeal. The fact that it was struck at the West Point Mint itself adds another layer of desirability and authenticity.

For the discerning collector, this piece represents the intersection of American military heritage, numismatic artistry, and precious metal investment—a combination that promises both enjoyment and potential appreciation for years to come. Whether you're building a comprehensive collection of modern commemoratives or seeking historically significant silver assets, the 2002-W West Point Bicentennial Dollar deserves prominent consideration in your portfolio.