Washington, D.C., August 9, 2000 – Today, the United States Mint announced it has received 105 design concepts for the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center Commemorative Coins. In May, the Mint invited 13 artists known for their work in medallic art and coin design to enter the competition. Six Mint employed sculptor/engravers also submitted designs. All of the designs reflect the first convening of Congress in the Capitol Building in the year 1800.

These submissions will be reviewed by the Citizens Commemorative Coin Advisory Committee. After consulting with the U.S. Capitol Preservation Commission and the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, the Secretary of the Treasury will select the final design and the Commemorative coins will be released in January 2001.

A portion of the revenue generated from sale of this coin will be used for the Capitol Visitor Center. Congress intends for this new Center to provide a high security, education experience for the approximately 5,000,000 annual visitors to the Capitol. Funds raised through coin sales will be added to the $100 million dollars appropriated for the Center and private sector donations.

When the Capitol Visitor Center Commemorative Coins are released in January 2001, customers may purchase them through the Mint’s secure web server at www.usmint.gov.

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