Since February is Black History Month here in the United States I thought I'd post my latest acquisition from the US Mint. The obverse is somewhat lacking in appeal in my opinion but the reverse, with it's simple elegant design, is really quite attractive.
That cameo torch really jumps out at ya on the proof coin, but not so much with the uncirculated coin.
It's a nice design. I don't see anything unattractive about the obverse though. It represents the theme quite well, with the added distinction of three portraits, which is uncommon.
I often complain about the lifeless, computer-perfect, low-relief devices on our circulating coinage. It would be nice if the coins in our pockets had the character and depth of that commem.
Well, to each our own. When I first saw the reverse I thought, typical lack of artistic effort (clipart) on the mint's part. What does a torch/flame have to do with the Civil Rights Movement - was it a left over Olympic design? The obverse, on the other hand, makes a statement.
It isn't bad, but my first impression was "Looks like the turn out for the march was rather light." For some reason the woman in the middle looks like she has been squashed flat. Posture is odd, looks like her shoulders are being pinned back. I think the reverse is good. This is one commemorative that you can look at and really understand what is being commemorated.
I contemplated getting this one...other priorities got in the way, as usual. The obverse is okay, and maybe just for the strength of the graphic design they left out the crowd behind them, relying instead on three iconic figures. ...And it looks like Susan B. Anthony is back, sporting Birth-Control Glasses and a 60s haircut on the right there.
I like it not love it. Sales have increased now such that mintage of the uncirculated version has surpassed the 1996 D Olympic commemoratives, so it will not be lowest mintage commemorative.
I found the reverse on the proof a beautiful contrast of minting finishes, in particular, the laser-finish of the outside "ring." (The USA could use this contrast for a bimetallic coin, hint, hint.) The same design in the uncirculated coin version has a nice cartwheel effect but the design has a "flat" appearance.
Completely agree with that assessment Onecenter. I feel the same way about the uncirculated version. It appears more 'satiny' in appearance to me.
