The journey to America’s 250th continues. Last month, the United States Mint kicked off the countdown to America’s Semiquincentennial with the announcement of the release of newly designed circulating coins in 2026. We also shared a first look at the first release in the Best of the Mint numismatic series—a historic reissue of five collector favorites struck throughout our Nation’s history. Today, we’re excited to share the second coin and medal set in our Best of the Mint series—a tribute to peace and vigilance, the 1916 Standing Liberty Gold Coin & Silver Companion Medal.
This quarter was part of the 1916 rebirth of American silver coinage. Artist Hermon A. MacNeil sculpted Miss Liberty uncovering a shield in an attitude of protection and holding an olive branch of peace. On the coin’s reverse, a graceful American eagle flies. Crafted in 1/4 oz 99.99% fine gold, this 2026 reissue will be paired with a companion 1 oz silver medal inspired by elements of the original 1916 Standing Liberty quarter, bringing a modern interpretation and new life to a timeless symbol. Together the designs embody strength, diplomacy, and America’s enduring ideals. Liberty then, now, and forever.
There seems to be a serious lack of artistic imagination at the U.S. mint. Why not strike a high relief remake of St. Gaudens $20 pattern J-1776?