New Mint Director Unveils Historic Semiquincentennial Coinage

SAVANNAH, GA – February 20, 2026 – The United States Mint is set to kick off a year of historic commemoration at the American Numismatic Association's (ANA) National Money Show, where new Mint Director Paul Hollis will make his first major public appearance. From February 26 to 28, the Savannah Convention Center will become the epicenter of the coin collecting world, highlighted by Hollis’s participation in the opening ribbon-cutting ceremony and the release of the first coins celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary.

A New Era Under a Collector's Leadership

The presence of Director Paul Hollis at the ANA show is generating considerable buzz, seen by many as a signal of a new, collector-focused era for the U.S. Mint. Appointed as the 41st Director in January 2026, Hollis brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the role. Unlike many of his predecessors, he is a lifelong numismatist, a passion that began with a Peace dollar from his grandmother and evolved into a 30-year career as a professional coin dealer and a 25-year Life Membership in the ANA.

His background, which also includes service as a Louisiana state legislator, has been widely hailed as a "big win" for the hobby. Industry experts believe his intimate understanding of the market and collector mindset could usher in more innovative programs, improved distribution strategies, and a stronger relationship between the Mint and its most ardent supporters. Hollis has stated his vision is to "connect America through coins," a goal he will actively pursue by meeting with attendees at the Mint’s booth (No. 547) throughout the show. His debut ribbon-cutting is more than a formality; for many collectors, it represents a symbolic passing of the torch to a leader who is truly one of their own.

A Silver Salute to America's 250th

The centerpiece of the Mint’s showcase in Savannah is the official launch of two highly anticipated products. At noon on Thursday, February 26, collectors will have the first opportunity to purchase the 2026 American Eagle Silver Proof Coin. This release is arguably one of the most significant in the popular series' 40-year history.

For the first time ever, the iconic coin will feature a dual date, "1776 ~ 2026," explicitly linking it to the nation's Semiquincentennial. Further distinguishing the coin is a special privy mark—a small, detailed rendering of the Liberty Bell inscribed with the number "250." This unique design element not only marks the anniversary but also serves as a preview of the branding for the Mint’s year-long celebration. Along with the landmark silver coin, the 2026 Congratulations Set will also be released, with limited quantities of both products available for purchase at the show. The anticipation surrounding these coins is immense, with some dealers reporting unprecedented levels of inquiry from collectors eager to own the first numismatic tributes to this national milestone.

The Semiquincentennial: A Historic Numismatic Celebration

The coins debuting in Savannah are just the opening act in what is poised to be the most comprehensive commemorative coin program in decades. Authorized by the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020, the U.S. Mint's Semiquincentennial program will touch nearly every aspect of American coinage for the 2026 calendar year.

In a move reminiscent of the highly popular 1976 Bicentennial coinage, all circulating coins—from the nickel to the half-dollar—will feature new one-year-only designs. The quarter-dollar series will be especially notable, with five distinct designs highlighting pivotal moments and documents from American history. Beyond pocket change, the Mint’s flagship collector programs, including the American Gold Eagle, American Buffalo Gold Coin, and Morgan and Peace Dollars, will also bear the "1776 ~ 2026" dual date and the "250" Liberty Bell privy mark.

Furthermore, the Mint plans to introduce five limited-edition "Best of the Mint Coin & Medal Sets," which will pair reissued 24k gold coins with companion silver medals. Legislative efforts are also underway to add another layer to the celebration. The "2.50 for America's 250th Act," which recently passed the House of Representatives, would authorize a collectible $2.50 gold coin with a design echoing the one issued for the nation's 150th anniversary in 1926, featuring an allegorical Liberty and Independence Hall.

The Pulse of the Hobby in Savannah

The ANA National Money Show provides the perfect stage for these major announcements. As one of the premier numismatic events in the country, the show draws thousands of collectors, dealers, and historians. The bourse floor will be a bustling marketplace with hundreds of dealers buying and selling millions of dollars in rare currency, while educational seminars and lectures will offer deep dives into numismatic history.

For many attendees, the event is a cherished opportunity to connect with fellow hobbyists and immerse themselves in the world of money. The U.S. Mint’s interactive booth will be a key destination, offering more than just product sales. Visitors can learn about the Mint’s broader Semiquincentennial program, explore educational resources like the U.S. Mint Coin Classroom, and gain insight into the institution’s mission to connect America through its coinage. The chance for collectors to speak directly with the new Director and other Mint officials underscores the community-centric spirit of the event, transforming it from a simple trade show into a vibrant hub of engagement and shared passion for history held in the palm of your hand.

The excitement building for the Savannah show reflects a broader enthusiasm for a year that promises to be a landmark for American numismatics, celebrating 250 years of national history through the enduring art of coinage.