Findings

Congress finds the following: (1) The signing of the Declaration of Independence was a turning point in the history of the United States and the world, and the 250th anniversary of the signing warrants national recognition. (2) The 68th Congress celebrated this fact by authorizing the United States Mint to commemorate the 150th anniversary of American independence by issuing 2 coins: A half dollar and a $2.50 gold piece. (3) The issuance of a $2.50 anniversary coin for the 250th anniversary serves as a historically grounded continuation of this numismatic tradition and connects Americans today with a legacy of national celebration through coinage. (4) The design and distribution of this coin offer a unique and accessible opportunity for the American people to engage with and take personal ownership of their national heritage through a tangible and lasting tribute. (5) Every citizen deserves the opportunity to acquire such a coin as a means to connect to the founding principles of liberty, democracy, and self-governance. (6) In addition to the congressionally authorized activities already planned by the Mint, this new anniversary coin will serve not only as a lasting tribute to the founding generation and the ideals we share with them to this day, but also as a unifying and educational gesture on the occasion of the semiquincentennial.