On July 1, 2016, the U.S. Mint introduced the Nancy Reagan First Spouse $10 Gold Coin, part of a special series honoring First Ladies. This coin is made from .9999 pure gold and has a limited mintage of only 10,000 coins. Both Proof and Uncirculated versions were produced at the West Point Mint, and each carries the “W” mintmark.
As the final release in 2016’s First Spouse series, this coin holds significant historical value, especially for collectors who follow the Presidential Dollar series.
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Who Was Nancy Reagan?
Born Anne Frances Robbins on July 6, 1921, in New York City, Nancy Reagan went on to become one of the most influential First Ladies in U.S. history. She initially pursued a career in Hollywood, appearing in films such as Donovan’s Brain (1953).
Her life took a pivotal turn when she met Ronald Reagan, then president of the Screen Actors Guild. They married in 1952 and remained together until his death in 2004. Nancy Reagan’s most memorable public role was as First Lady from 1981 to 1989, where she championed the anti-drug movement with her iconic “Just Say No” campaign.
She passed away on March 6, 2016, just a few months before the release of her commemorative coin.
Market Data and Popularity
The Nancy Reagan First Spouse Gold Coin is sought after by collectors, especially in top-graded versions. Coins rated PCGS PR70DCAM and NGC PF70UCAM—which signify a flawless finish—are the most desirable. Auction records show that these coins can sell for anywhere between $700 and $1,000 depending on condition, label, and certification.
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Coin Design
Obverse:
The front of the coin features a warm, smiling portrait of Nancy Reagan, designed by Benjamin Sowards and engraved by Joseph Menna. The obverse includes inscriptions like “NANCY REAGAN,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the year 2016, along with the “W” mintmark.
Reverse:
The back, designed by Joel Iskowitz and engraved by Don Everhart, depicts Nancy Reagan with her hands on the shoulders of two children, symbolizing her efforts to reach all of America’s youth through the “Just Say No” campaign. The children are of different races, representing the inclusivity of her message.
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Key Specifications
- Country: United States of America
- Year of Issue: 2016
- Denomination: $10 (USD)
- Mintmark: W (West Point)
- Mintage: 3,458
- Composition: .9999 Gold
- Weight: 15.55 g
- Diameter: 26.50 mm
- Edge: Reeded
- Obverse Designer: Benjamin Sowards and Joseph Menna
- Reverse Designer: Joel Iskowitz and Don Everhart
This coin stands out not just for its gold content, but for its place in American history, making it a treasured piece for both coin collectors and history buffs alike.
Ethan is a passionate rare coin collector with years of experience uncovering the stories and history behind unique coins. His insightful articles are a go-to for anyone curious about coin values or their fascinating backstories.