-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 45150
Checkout
The American Innovation 2018 $1 Reverse Proof Coin – Introductory Coin is the inaugural release in the United States Mint’s ambitious and educational American Innovation $1 Coin Program. Unlike the state-specific issues that follow, the 2018 coin is unique in that it serves as a national introduction to the series and does not represent any individual state or territory. Struck in a limited reverse proof format, this coin was released exclusively to collectors, showcasing both symbolic artistry and advanced minting quality. Its special status as the first coin in a long-running series gives it lasting significance among modern U.S. numismatic issues.
Authorized by Public Law 115-197, the American Innovation $1 Coin Act was signed into law on July 20, 2018. The law directed the Mint to begin issuing dollar coins that commemorate innovation and innovators from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the five U.S. territories. Though the regular issues began in 2019, the 2018 coin was created as a special introductory piece. It was not intended for circulation and was made available solely in reverse proof finish, a format that highlights the coin’s design by featuring frosted fields and polished, mirror-like raised devices—the opposite of traditional proof coinage.
The obverse design of the 2018 American Innovation $1 Coin was created by Justin Kunz and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill. It features a dramatic and bold rendition of the Statue of Liberty, holding her torch high in her right hand. This obverse image would go on to serve as the standard obverse for all coins in the American Innovation series, offering a consistent and iconic visual theme. To the right of Liberty is the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST,” while the year “2018” and mint mark “S” appear along the bottom. The uniformity of the obverse across the series reinforces the continuity of the program.
The reverse of the 2018 coin, designed by Joel Iskowitz and engraved by Joseph Menna, presents a powerful visual concept: a stylized gear forming the background with a hand turning a second gear in the foreground. This symbolic act of engaging the gears conveys the idea of American ingenuity in motion. The inscriptions read “AMERICAN INNOVATORS” at the top and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” below. The design is intentionally abstract and thematic, rather than state-specific, making it a philosophical opening statement to the series that emphasizes collective creativity and advancement as national values.
Each coin is struck in a manganese-brass clad composition, the same alloy used for Sacagawea and Presidential $1 coins. It contains 88.5% copper, 6% zinc, 3.5% manganese, and 2% nickel, with a diameter of 26.49 millimeters and a weight of 8.1 grams. The edge of the coin is inscribed with the legends “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” the mint mark, and the year “2018.” The reverse proof finish is produced by applying a specialized minting process in which the planchet is frosted before striking, and only the devices are polished, resulting in a striking visual contrast that enhances detail and dimensionality.
The 2018 Introductory Reverse Proof Coin was minted exclusively at the San Francisco Mint and bears the “S” mintmark. It was released individually in special packaging, including a presentation folder that features design details and a certificate of authenticity from the U.S. Mint. Unlike the later state coins, which were issued in four-coin sets, the 2018 issue stands alone, further distinguishing it within the broader American Innovation series. With an official product limit of 75,000 coins, it remains relatively scarce compared to other modern issues, and many examples were quickly absorbed by collectors upon release.
Condition-wise, the reverse proof coins are struck to exacting standards using hand-finished dies and specially treated planchets to ensure high visual clarity. Coins are individually handled and encapsulated in protective materials at the Mint to preserve their pristine appearance. As a result, the 2018 Reverse Proof often grades highly when submitted to third-party certification services such as NGC or PCGS. Many specimens have earned the coveted PF69 or PF70 grades, reflecting virtually flawless surfaces and strike quality. Those with designations such as “First Release” or “First Strike” are especially prized by collectors focused on pedigree and limited availability.
As the kickoff coin to a multi-year program, the 2018 Reverse Proof holds a special position in the American Innovation series. It introduces the series’ themes, design motifs, and production philosophy while distinguishing itself with a national, rather than state-focused, reverse. This distinction gives the coin broad appeal among both casual collectors and serious numismatists. It also serves as a benchmark against which later issues can be compared, both artistically and historically, and is an essential acquisition for those building a complete American Innovation $1 collection.
The significance of the 2018 coin lies not only in its symbolic design and inaugural status, but also in its format and limited release strategy. It was the first time the U.S. Mint had launched a coin series with a single reverse proof offering, and its exclusive nature ensured instant collector interest. Its reverse imagery sets the tone for the series, portraying innovation as a dynamic and collective process, rather than a singular achievement. The use of gears, the motif of motion, and the human hand at work all suggest an evolving and participatory view of American progress.
The American Innovation 2018 $1 Reverse Proof Coin remains a standout in the landscape of modern U.S. numismatics. With its symbolic theme, eye-catching finish, and pivotal role as the series' introduction, it offers collectors a unique piece that blends artistry, rarity, and historical relevance. As the American Innovation series continues through 2032, this coin will only grow in prominence as the foundation of a narrative arc celebrating the countless contributions of American thinkers, builders, and visionaries across all fifty states and territories. Whether collected as a stand-alone issue or as part of a full set, it represents the spark of ingenuity that drives the nation's past, present, and future.