March of Dimes Silver Dollars for 75th Anniversary

Just a few hours remain before the United States Mint begins accepting orders for silver coins commemorating the 75th anniversary of the March of Dimes of Foundation.

On Friday, March 13, at noon ET, uncirculated and proof March of Dimes Silver Dollars go on sale at introductory prices of $43.95 and $46.95. Those prices last until April 13, 2015, at 3 p.m. EDT, when regular pricing of $48.95 and $51.95 takes effect.

Franklin D. Roosevelt on January 3, 1938 founded the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, which later changed its name to the March of Dimes Foundation (www.marchofdimes.com). Fund-raising efforts by the Foundation involved the collection of dimes from children, which eventually led to the name change.

Struck in 90% and 10% copper, both silver coins share designs emblematic of the Foundation. A review and recommendation process selected them from among over three-dozen proposed designs.

Obverses (heads) represent the past by depicting President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Dr. Jonas Salk, two leaders in the fight against polio. Paul C. Balan created the design and Michael Gaudioso sculpted it.

Designed and sculpted by Don Everhart, reverses (tails) depict a baby cuddled in the hand of a parent, representing the Foundation’s dedication to the health of babies.

These silver dollars come from two different locations — the proof from the U.S. Mint facility in West Point and the uncirculated from the U.S. Mint facility in Philadelphia. Each coin has a ‘W’ or ‘P’ mint mark telling their origin.

Special Set Upcoming

Toward mid-year, on May 4, the U.S. Mint will introduce another commemorative product, the March of Dimes Special Silver Set.

This silver proof set of 90% silver coins will go on sale for $61.95. It has the:

• 2015-W Proof March of Dimes Silver Dollar from the West Point Mint with a "W" mint mark
• 2015-W Proof Roosevelt dime struck at the West Point Mint with a "W" mint mark
• 2015-P Reverse Proof Roosevelt dime struck at the Philadelphia Mint with a "P" mint mark

These silver dimes are a first for the United States Mint and they will not be available individually or in any other set. (See more images of the dimes.)

Surcharges and Ordering

Sales prices above include a $10 surcharge, as required by Public Law 112-209. Collected amounts will go to the Foundation to help finance research, education, and services aimed at improving the health of women, infants, and children.

When released, the silver coins and set may be ordered directly from the United States Mint by visiting its section of commemorative coins — sort by "New Products."