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The Certified Commemorative $5 Gold 1995-W Stadium MS70 NGC represents a pinnacle of modern U.S. commemorative gold coinage, struck in celebration of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games held in Atlanta, Georgia. Authorized by the U.S. Congress as part of a comprehensive Olympic commemorative coin program, this coin was issued in 1995 to help fund the United States Olympic Committee and to commemorate the rich tradition of the Games. As the third of five $5 gold commemorative coins released in the program, the 1995-W Stadium issue features a striking design symbolizing the Olympic spirit and the architecture that supports it. Certified by NGC in perfect Mint State 70, this coin is not only a pristine example of U.S. Mint craftsmanship but also a tangible tribute to international athletic excellence and American artistry.
The Olympic coin program of the 1990s was among the most ambitious ever undertaken by the United States Mint. Spanning four years and featuring multiple denominations and designs, the series aimed to celebrate the return of the Summer Olympic Games to American soil. The 1995-W $5 Stadium coin was released alongside other issues in the series and distinguished itself with a design centered on the stadiums that host Olympic competitions—structures that represent more than just brick and steel but serve as modern temples of global unity and athletic triumph. The coin was struck exclusively at the West Point Mint and carries the “W” mintmark on the obverse, indicating its origin at one of the nation’s premier facilities for gold and silver production.
The obverse of the 1995-W $5 Gold Stadium coin was designed by U.S. Mint sculptor-engraver Thomas D. Rogers Sr. and features a dramatic overhead view of the planned Olympic Stadium in Atlanta. The stadium is depicted from an elevated angle, showing its oval shape and central playing field, with stylized lines suggesting crowd movement and architectural grandeur. The sunburst motif radiating from the stadium adds a symbolic element of glory, competition, and international gathering. The inscriptions include “LIBERTY,” “1995,” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” all strategically placed to complement the dynamic composition. On this MS70-certified example, every architectural line and subtle design element is flawlessly struck, with razor-sharp relief and unblemished luster throughout the coin’s surface.
The reverse of the coin, created by artist Frank Gasparro, a former Chief Engraver of the United States Mint, presents the iconic Olympic flame rising from an elegant cauldron. Encircling the flame are thirteen stars, representing the original colonies, and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The Olympic rings are prominently displayed beneath the flame, along with the denomination “FIVE DOLLARS.” The national motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appears below. The reverse’s simplicity and symbolism make it a powerful complement to the modernism of the obverse. In Mint State 70 condition, the fields are smooth and reflective, and every detail—from the flame’s gentle curves to the defined Olympic rings—is fully preserved without a single flaw.
This coin is struck in 90% gold and 10% copper, following the traditional composition for U.S. gold commemorative coins, and contains a total of 0.24187 troy ounces of pure gold. With a diameter of 21.6 millimeters and a weight of 8.359 grams, the 1995-W $5 Gold Stadium coin shares its dimensions with classic pre-1933 U.S. half eagles, connecting it to a long lineage of American gold coinage. Its small size belies its significance, both numismatically and historically. The high purity gold content makes it a desirable option for collectors seeking bullion-backed collectibles with added numismatic premium, especially in the top certified grade of MS70.
The total mintage of the 1995-W $5 Stadium gold coin was limited, particularly for the uncirculated version. Of the 42,000 uncirculated coins authorized by Congress, only 14,696 were ultimately sold, making this one of the lower-mintage $5 gold commemorative coins of the 1990s. Within that population, MS70 examples are far fewer still, adding an element of rarity that drives collector demand. NGC’s certification as a perfect Mint State 70—the highest grade possible—signifies that the coin is entirely free of post-strike imperfections under 5x magnification. This grade, combined with its low mintage and thematic appeal, places it in the upper echelon of modern commemorative gold issues.
The MS70 grade from NGC ensures that the coin exhibits brilliant, unbroken luster, no signs of handling or contact, and a flawless strike. Coins of this caliber are prized for their aesthetic perfection and are often used as anchor pieces in Olympic-themed or modern U.S. gold collections. The coin’s original mint surfaces remain intact, and the high relief of the design captures the intricate detail and depth intended by the sculptors. The fields are clean and reflective, while the devices show full definition, resulting in a presentation that combines visual appeal with historical substance. Collectors value such top-graded examples both for their beauty and for their potential long-term desirability.
The 1995-W $5 Stadium coin also holds special appeal as part of the larger narrative of Olympic numismatics. Collectors who pursue Olympic-themed collections recognize this coin as one of the more distinctive modern pieces, due to its architectural obverse and the flame-bearing reverse that ties it thematically to ancient Greek traditions. The juxtaposition of modern and classical elements speaks to the timeless nature of the Games themselves—an event that bridges nations, cultures, and generations. The coin thus becomes more than just a numismatic item; it is a cultural artifact representing global unity through sport, all encapsulated in a piece of enduring American gold.
The commemorative nature of the 1995-W Stadium issue further enhances its importance within the broader landscape of U.S. Mint issues. Unlike standard bullion coins, commemoratives are struck for a limited time and often feature unique designs not reused in other releases. The artwork and symbolism chosen for this coin set it apart from traditional coinage, providing collectors with a narrative piece that commemorates a specific event and purpose. The fact that this particular coin was issued in support of the 1996 Olympics—only the fourth time the Summer Games were held in the United States—adds an element of patriotic pride and international relevance that deepens its appeal.
The Certified Commemorative $5 Gold 1995-W Stadium MS70 NGC is a standout example of precision, artistry, and historical meaning within the world of modern U.S. gold coins. With its perfect grade, distinctive Olympic theme, and architectural obverse design, it bridges numismatics and history in a compelling and elegant form. Its low mintage and flawless preservation make it a scarce and desirable acquisition for collectors of U.S. commemoratives, gold coinage, and Olympic memorabilia alike. Whether displayed individually or as part of a complete commemorative series, this coin serves as both a tribute to global athletic achievement and a shining example of American minting excellence at its highest level.