Understanding the American 5-cent Coin Design Continuity Act of 2003

Definition & Meaning

The American 5-cent Coin Design Continuity Act of 2003 is a federal law aimed at maintaining a consistent design for the 5-cent coin, also known as the nickel. This Act authorized the minting of the commemorative Westward Journey Nickel Series and established the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee. It allows the Secretary of the Treasury to modify the coin's design for the years 2003, 2004, and 2005 to honor the bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: In 2004, the U.S. Mint released a nickel featuring a depiction of the Louisiana Purchase, in line with the provisions of the Act. This design change was made after consultation with the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee.

Example 2: A collector may seek legal guidance on the implications of owning a nickel from the Westward Journey Nickel Series, which was minted under this Act. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Commemorative Coin A coin issued to honor a particular event or person. Commemorative coins may not have the same legal tender status as regular coins.
Numismatic Law The area of law that deals with the collection and trading of coins and currency. Numismatic law encompasses a broader range of issues beyond just design continuity.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a collector or interested in the legal aspects of coin design, consider researching the American 5-cent Coin Design Continuity Act of 2003 further. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates related to coin collection and numismatic transactions. If you encounter complex issues, consulting a legal professional with expertise in numismatic law may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Year Enacted: 2003
  • Design Changes Allowed: 2003, 2004, 2005
  • Key Figure: President Thomas Jefferson
  • Committee Established: Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The Act aims to maintain a consistent design for the 5-cent coin while allowing for commemorative changes during specific years.