2017-P $1 Boys Town Centennial Silver Commem – BU

In the heart of America's heartland, a century-long legacy of hope and transformation began with a simple act of compassion. On December 12, 1917, Father Edward J. Flanagan opened the doors to a humble boarding house in Omaha, Nebraska, welcoming five young boys in need of shelter and guidance. This modest beginning would grow into Boys Town, an institution that has touched the lives of countless youth and reshaped the landscape of child care in America.

Father Flanagan's vision was revolutionary for its time. In an era when orphanages often segregated children by race or religion, he embraced all boys, regardless of their background. His philosophy was simple yet profound: "There are no bad boys. There is only bad environment, bad training, bad example, bad thinking." This belief in the inherent goodness of every child became the cornerstone of Boys Town's approach.

As word of Father Flanagan's work spread, the need for more space became apparent. In 1921, he purchased Overlook Farm, a 160-acre plot ten miles west of Omaha. This expansive rural setting allowed Boys Town to flourish, providing not just shelter but a true community for its young residents. Here, boys learned valuable skills through farming, vocational training, and academic studies, all while experiencing the stability and care many had never known before.

The 1930s brought national attention to Boys Town, culminating in the 1938 MGM film "Boys Town," starring Spencer Tracy as Father Flanagan. Tracy's Oscar-winning performance catapulted the institution into the public consciousness, drawing support and admiration from across the country. The film's success not only raised awareness but also funds, enabling Boys Town to expand its facilities and reach.

Perhaps one of the most enduring symbols of Boys Town's spirit is the image adopted in 1943: a boy carrying a younger boy on his back, accompanied by the motto "He ain't heavy, he's my brother." This powerful visual encapsulates the ethos of mutual support and brotherhood that Father Flanagan instilled in his charges, a philosophy that continues to resonate today.

As Boys Town approached its centennial, it had evolved far beyond its original scope. No longer just a home for boys, it had become a national organization with locations across the United States, offering a range of services for both boys and girls. The 2017 commemorative coin celebrates not just a century of existence, but a century of lives changed, futures brightened, and a legacy of compassion that continues to inspire.

Design Features

The 2017-P $1 Boys Town Centennial Silver Commemorative coin is a masterpiece of numismatic art, capturing the essence of Boys Town's enduring mission. The obverse features a striking portrait of Father Edward Flanagan, the visionary founder of Boys Town. His likeness is rendered with remarkable detail, conveying both the strength and compassion that defined his character. Flanagan's gaze is directed slightly upward, symbolizing his forward-thinking approach and unwavering hope for the future of the children in his care.

Surrounding Father Flanagan's portrait are the words "BOYS TOWN CENTENNIAL" and the years "1917-2017," marking the institution's hundred years of service. The inscriptions "IN GOD WE TRUST" and "LIBERTY" are also prominently featured, reinforcing the coin's status as legal tender and echoing the fundamental American values that Boys Town embodies.

The reverse of the coin is equally compelling, depicting a young girl holding the hand of a smaller boy. This image is a powerful representation of Boys Town's evolution, acknowledging its expansion to serve both genders. The older child's protective stance mirrors the iconic "He ain't heavy" statue, while the younger child's upturned face suggests hope and trust. Behind them, a building reminiscent of Boys Town's early architecture grounds the scene in the organization's rich history.

Arching above the figures is the motto "SAVING CHILDREN ★ HEALING FAMILIES," succinctly capturing Boys Town's expanded mission in the 21st century. The coin's denomination "ONE DOLLAR" is clearly stated, along with "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," completing the required elements of U.S. coinage while reinforcing the national significance of Boys Town's work.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Philadelphia
• Obverse: Portrait of Father Edward Flanagan, founder of Boys Town
• Reverse: Young girl holding the hand of a smaller boy, symbolizing Boys Town's mission

Investment Appeal

The 2017-P $1 Boys Town Centennial Silver Commemorative coin presents a compelling opportunity for both numismatists and investors. Its 90% silver content offers intrinsic value, providing a hedge against economic uncertainty. The coin's brilliant uncirculated condition ensures that every detail of its masterful design is preserved, appealing to collectors who value pristine specimens.

Beyond its precious metal content, this coin's historical significance adds layers of value. Commemorating a century of one of America's most renowned charitable institutions, it carries emotional and cultural weight that transcends its face value. The limited mintage of commemorative coins often leads to increased demand over time, potentially enhancing long-term appreciation.

For collectors, this coin represents a tangible piece of American social history. It's not just a coin; it's a story of compassion, innovation in child care, and the enduring impact of one man's vision. The involvement of the United States Mint lends additional prestige and guarantees the coin's quality and authenticity.

Investors should note that while not IRA-eligible, this coin's appeal to both collectors and silver enthusiasts provides multiple avenues for potential value growth. Its dual nature as both a collectible and a precious metal product offers flexibility in future trading or selling scenarios.

In essence, the 2017-P $1 Boys Town Centennial Silver Commemorative coin is more than just an addition to a collection or portfolio. It's an investment in a piece of American heritage, a celebration of a century of changing lives, and a reminder of the enduring power of compassion and community in shaping our nation's future.