Contact Information: Contact: American Eagle Foundation Al Cecere 1-865-256-0372 Joanne Cheponis 1-865-429-0011
United States Mint Issues Commemorative Bald Eagle Coins January 15, 2008
Proceeds from the Coins to Benefit Continuing Bald Eagle Care and Preservation Efforts
| Source: American Eagle Foundation
WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwire - January 16, 2008) - Ewire -- The United States Mint issued three
limited-edition commemorative coins on January 15th celebrating the
dramatic comeback of the Bald Eagle to America's lands, waterways and
skies, and marking the 35th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act.
"We're excited to work closely with the United States Mint and their
artists and engravers to create these beautiful coins," said American Eagle
Foundation (AEF) (www.eagles.org) founder and President Al Cecere. "We hope
the public will enthusiastically support this program to aid the bald
eagle, a precious national treasure, for generations to come."
The collectable coins include a $5 gold coin, a silver dollar and a clad
half-dollar (available individually and in three different special sets),
and will only be sold through Dec. 31, 2008. During a one-month pre-issue
period, Jan. 15th through Feb. 14th, the coins will be available at a
special discounted price. They can be purchased at www.usmint.gov or by
calling 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468).
A surcharge from the sale of each commemorative coin will be earmarked to
create a special American Eagle Fund endowment managed by the
not-for-profit AEF. The coin program has the potential of generating over
$10 million for the eagle protection cause.
The three coins will feature both natural and historical Bald Eagle images
and emblems. The clad half-dollar, which is included in a special product
targeted at young collectors, features the stately profile of the Bald
Eagle "Challenger" on one side and two baby eaglets snuggled in their nest
on the opposite side. "Challenger," a 19-year-old non-releasable bird
cared for by the AEF, is internationally known for his spectacular
free-flight educational appearances at high-profile sporting events and
ceremonies coast to coast.
"This is the first time in our country's history that the likeness of a
specific famous Bald Eagle has appeared on legal tender United States
coinage," said Cecere. "In fact, Challenger and the AEF staff campaigned
tirelessly on Capitol Hill to assure that the coin bill was passed
unanimously."
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link: http://www.ewire.com/display.cfm/Wire_ID/4467
Web Site: http://www.eagles.org