WASHINGTON – The United States Mint today announced the expansion of its popular Subscription Program, the newest way for coin enthusiasts to build and cultivate coin collections. On April 30, 2002, the United States Mint will add two more products to the Subscription Program -- the American Eagle Silver Proof Coins and the 50 State Quarters® Collector’s Spoons -- beginning with the current year’s products.

The Subscription Program represents a no-fee, no-hassle approach that ensures coin collectors will never miss a United States Mint product offering for selected products. Upon becoming a subscriber, the program automatically fills orders and delivers products to the customer’s door. This customer service enhancement makes it easier for program members to regularly purchase products. At the same time, it assures them that products available for a limited time or in limited quantities will always be available to them.

Other Subscription Program options include: 50 State Quarters Official First Day Coin Covers, 50 State Quarters Two-Roll Set and Bags, United States Mint Proof Set, United States Mint 50 State Quarters Proof Set™, United States Mint Uncirculated Coin Set® and United States Mint Silver Proof Set™.

The American Eagle Silver Proof Coin, the most popular silver coin in the world, weighs 1 troy ounce and contains 99.9% silver. The obverse design is Adolph A. Weinman's full-length figure of Liberty in full stride. The reverse design, by United States Mint sculptor/engraver John Mercanti, features the heraldic eagle with shield. Each 2002 American Eagle Proof Coin is sealed in a protective capsule within a presentation case, and is accompanied by an official Certificate of Authenticity. Mintages of 2002 American Eagle Proof Coins are limited; taking advantage of this subscription service is the best way for customers to ensure they don’t miss out on this popular product.

Each 50 State Quartersâ Collector’s Spoon is 4 ½ inches long, with the state quarter coin mounted at the top and state name spelled out in block lettering down the stem. The Louisiana state quarter spoon will be the first spoon available under the subscription program. The Louisiana quarter, the third quarter of 2002 and eighteenth in the 50 State Quartersâ Program, displays the image of Louisiana’s state bird – the pelican, a horn with musical notes, and the outline of the Louisiana Purchase territory. The design also includes the inscription “Louisiana Purchase.”

For more information about the United States Mint Subscription Program, please visit our Web site at www.USMINT.gov or call 1-800-USA MINT.