First Readable Braille Coin To Go On Sale

At noon today, March 26, 2009, the first US coin with readable Braille will go on sale at an early order discount price.

This beautiful proof 2009 Louis Braille Bicentennial Silver Dollar commemorates the 200th anniversary of the birth of Louis Braille, inventor of the Braille system, which is used by the blind to read and write. This proof coin is extraordinarily brilliant and features sharp relief and a mirror-like background to highlight the images on both sides of the coin. The obverse of this coin features a portrait of Louis Braille. The reverse shows a child reading a book in Braille with the word “Braille” (abbreviated BRL in Braille code) above him. The word INDEPENDENCE is featured on a bookshelf behind the child.

Louis Braille Bicentennial Proof Silver Dollar

Total mintage of the 90 percent coin will be limited to 400,000, the Mint said. The coin will be available in proof and uncirculated versions. (Proof version shown above)

An introductory sales period will last through April 27, after which regular prices will go into effect.  Introductory prices will range from $31.95 to $37.95. Regular prices will be $33.95 to $41.95.

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