james madison 1809 coin

The James Madison 1809 Coin: A Historical Look

The 1809 James Madison Presidential dollar is a commemorative coin issued by the United States Mint as part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program. It honors James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, and was released into circulation on November 19, 2009.

Design and Features

The obverse of the 1809 James Madison coin features a portrait of James Madison. The design is simple and elegant, depicting Madison in a dignified pose. The inscriptions include “JAMES MADISON,” “4th PRESIDENT,” and “1809.”

The reverse features a rendition of the Statue of Liberty, a common design element across all coins in the Presidential $1 Coin Program. The reverse inscriptions include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “$1.” The coins also feature edge lettering, including the year of minting, mint mark, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”

Significance and Collectibility

The James Madison coin holds both historical and numismatic significance. As part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, it serves as a tangible reminder of President Madison’s contributions to the nation. Collectors are drawn to these coins for their historical value and the opportunity to assemble a complete set of Presidential dollars.

The value of an 1809 James Madison dollar coin depends on its condition, mint mark (Philadelphia “P” or Denver “D”), and any potential errors. Uncirculated coins in pristine condition command higher prices than circulated ones. Specific errors, like missing edge lettering or double dies, can drastically increase a coin’s value.

Mintage and Distribution

The United States Mint produced the James Madison dollar coins at both the Philadelphia and Denver mints. The mintages are readily available and represent the total number of coins struck at each facility. These coins were initially distributed through banks and were intended to circulate among the general public.

More information about the Presidential $1 Coin Program and James Madison can be found on Wikipedia’s entry on the Presidential $1 Coin Program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 1809 James Madison coin made of gold?

No, the James Madison Presidential dollar coin is not made of gold. It is composed of manganese brass, consisting of 88.5% copper, 6% zinc, 3.5% manganese, and 2% nickel.

How much is an 1809 James Madison dollar coin worth?

The value of a circulated 1809 James Madison dollar coin is typically around face value ($1). Uncirculated examples can fetch a few dollars, while error coins can be worth significantly more.

Where can I find an 1809 James Madison dollar coin?

You can find 1809 James Madison dollar coins at coin shops, coin shows, online auction sites, and from some banks (though they are increasingly rare in general circulation).

What is the Presidential $1 Coin Program?

The Presidential $1 Coin Program was a United States Mint program that ran from 2007 to 2016, issuing dollar coins featuring portraits of deceased U.S. Presidents in order of their term in office.

Are there any errors on the 1809 James Madison coin that increase its value?

Yes, certain errors, such as missing edge lettering or double dies, can significantly increase the value of an 1809 James Madison dollar coin.

Summary

The 1809 James Madison Presidential dollar is a valuable piece of American numismatic history. As part of the Presidential $1 Coin Program, it honors the fourth President of the United States and contributes to the tangible record of US history. Whether a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, the coin provides insight into American heritage.