| In 1996, the United States Mint offered a silver dollar in their Young Collectors Edition Coin Sets acknowledging the 150th anniversary of the Smithsonian Institution. The collectible coin commemorates the 150 years of collecting. This coin set package is similar to the previous coin sets but differs slightly in size and in the construction of the inner coin package. The set measures six inches by six inches by 3/8 inch with it being slightly thicker. The outer sleeve is constructed of card stock printed in color, and the inner package, also of color card stock, is folded around a soft core to protect the coin. On the front of the package, Jeremiah and Christina, dressed in clothing of over a century ago, ride bicycles with large front wheels and small rear wheels in front of what is known as the "the Castle," the Smithsonian's first building. Their dog, Charlie, races along beside their bikes. The title of the package states, "The United States Mint 150th Anniversary of the Smithsonian Institution" near the bottom of the front of the outer package. The rear of the outer package looks upward in front of "the Castle" and contains the Certificate of Authenticity information: The 1996 Smithsonian 150th Anniversary Commemorative Silver Dollar CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY Philip N. Diehl, Director, United States Mint COIN SPECIFICATIONS Obverse Design: Smithsonian Castle Reverse Design: Allegorical Figure with Torch of Knowledge (Based on the Smithsonian's gold Langley Medal) Obverse Designer/Engraver: Thomas D. Rogers, Sr. Reverse Designer/Engraver: John Mercanti Condition: Proof Date: 1996 Mint: Philadelphia "P" Diameter: 1.500 inches Composition: 90% silver (0.76 troy ounce), 10% copper Weight: 26.730 grams |