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

In the heart of America's heartland, a century-old legacy of hope and transformation began with a simple act of compassion. On December 12, 1917, Father Edward J. Flanagan opened the doors of a modest home in Omaha, Nebraska, to five young boys in need. This humble beginning marked the birth of Boys Town, an organization that would go on to revolutionize child care and inspire millions worldwide.

Father Flanagan's vision was radical for its time. He believed that every child, regardless of race, color, or creed, deserved love, care, and an opportunity to succeed. This philosophy challenged the prevailing notions of juvenile reform and set Boys Town on a path to becoming a beacon of hope for troubled youth across the nation.

As Boys Town grew, so did its impact. By 1921, the organization had outgrown its original location and moved to Overlook Farm on the outskirts of Omaha. This move allowed Boys Town to expand its services and create a self-sustaining community where boys could learn, grow, and prepare for adulthood. The "City of Little Men," as it came to be known, became a model for juvenile care facilities worldwide.

The story of Boys Town captured the imagination of the American public, culminating in the 1938 film "Boys Town," starring Spencer Tracy and Mickey Rooney. Tracy's Academy Award-winning portrayal of Father Flanagan brought national attention to the organization's work and solidified its place in American culture.

As Boys Town approached its centennial, the United States Mint chose to commemorate this remarkable institution with a special silver dollar. The 2017-P $1 Boys Town Centennial Silver Commemorative coin serves as a lasting tribute to Father Flanagan's enduring legacy and the countless lives transformed by Boys Town over the past century.

This commemorative coin not only celebrates a century of compassion and service but also embodies the spirit of hope and resilience that Boys Town instills in its young residents. It stands as a tangible reminder of the power of one person's vision to change the world, one child at a time.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2017-P $1 Boys Town Centennial Silver Commemorative coin features a poignant design that captures the essence of Boys Town's mission. A young boy stands in the foreground, his gaze lifted upward towards an oak branch. This powerful imagery symbolizes the journey from vulnerability to strength, from despair to hope. The oak, a symbol of endurance and growth, represents the nurturing environment that Boys Town provides to its young charges.

Inscriptions on the obverse include "BOYS TOWN," "When you help a child today…," and "IN GOD WE TRUST," along with the year "2017." These words encapsulate the organization's faith-based approach and its focus on creating a better future through present action.

The reverse design is equally compelling, depicting an older boy carrying a young child on his back. This image is inspired by the iconic Boys Town logo and statue, which bears the motto "He ain't heavy, he's my brother." This powerful representation of compassion and mutual support embodies the core values that Boys Town instills in its residents.

Surrounding this central image are the inscriptions "THE WORK WILL CONTINUE," "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," and "ONE DOLLAR." The reverse also features the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM," reinforcing the idea of unity and shared responsibility that is central to Boys Town's philosophy.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Philadelphia
• Obverse: Young boy gazing up at an oak branch, symbolizing growth and hope
• Reverse: Older boy carrying younger child, inspired by Boys Town's iconic logo

Investment Appeal

The 2017-P $1 Boys Town Centennial Silver Commemorative coin presents a unique opportunity for both collectors and investors. Its 90% silver content provides intrinsic value, while its limited mintage enhances its numismatic appeal. As a commemorative issue, it offers the potential for appreciation beyond its metal value.

This coin's historical significance adds another layer of investment potential. Commemorating a beloved American institution with a century-long legacy of service, it resonates with collectors who value coins with cultural and historical importance. The emotional appeal of Boys Town's mission, combined with the coin's artistic merit, creates a compelling narrative that can drive long-term collector interest.

Moreover, as part of a limited commemorative series, this coin benefits from the United States Mint's reputation for quality and authenticity. This pedigree ensures liquidity and recognition in the numismatic market, making it an attractive addition to diversified coin portfolios.

For investors and collectors alike, the 2017-P $1 Boys Town Centennial Silver Commemorative coin offers more than just precious metal content. It represents an investment in a piece of American history, a celebration of compassion and service, and a tangible connection to an organization that has touched countless lives. As Boys Town continues its vital work into its second century, this coin stands as a lasting tribute to its enduring legacy and an inspiring reminder of the power of hope and perseverance.