What Coin is John Adams On?
John Adams was the second President of the United States and played a crucial role in the country’s early history, earning him a place on the Presidential Dollar Series. As a numismatist, it is essential to understand the coins’ history, including the design, value, and significance of each coin. In this article, we will delve into the details of John Adams’ appearance on coins and answer the question: “What coin is John Adams on?”
The Presidential Dollar Series

The Presidential Dollar Series is a collection of coins that commemorates the country’s past Presidents. The series began in 2007, and each coin is minted for a limited time before being retired, making them a popular item for collectors. John Adams was included in the series, with a Presidential Dollar minted in his honor in 2007.
The John Adams Presidential Dollar features a portrait of Adams on the front side, alongside the inscription “John Adams” and the years of his presidential term. The backside of the coin includes an image of the Statue of Liberty, the inscription “United States of America,” and the coin’s denomination.
The Design of John Adams’ Presidential Dollar

The design of John Adams’ Presidential Dollar was created by Don Everhart, a former member of the US Mint’s sculptor-engraver department. The front side of the coin features a portrait of Adams, with the words “John Adams” inscribed above and “2nd President 1797-1801” below. The backside of the coin features a rendition of the Statue of Liberty, with “United States of America” inscribed above and the coin’s denomination, “One Dollar,” below.
The design of the coin was inspired by Adams’ personality and achievements. The portrait of Adams shows a stern expression, reflecting his no-nonsense approach to leadership. The Statue of Liberty on the backside of the coin is a symbol of American freedom, a value that Adams championed throughout his political career.
The Design of John Adams’ Presidential Dollar
The design of John Adams’ Presidential Dollar was intended to capture the essence of his personality and achievements. The portrait of Adams on the front of the coin shows a stern expression and furrowed brow, reflecting his no-nonsense approach to leadership. The words “John Adams” are inscribed above the portrait, while “2nd President 1797-1801” is inscribed below.
The backside of the coin features a rendition of the Statue of Liberty, with “United States of America” inscribed above and the coin’s denomination, “One Dollar,” below. The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of American freedom, a value that Adams championed throughout his political career.
The coin’s design is intended to evoke a sense of gravitas and seriousness, reflecting Adams’ contributions to American politics. The design is also a nod to the traditional style of coinage, with a focus on simplicity and elegance.
The History of John Adams’ Appearance on Coins
John Adams has been featured on various coins throughout history, with the earliest coins dating back to the early 19th century. One of the most notable coins featuring Adams is the 1797 Half Eagle, which features a portrait of Adams on the obverse side.
Over time, Adams’ appearance on coins has evolved, with changes made to reflect the changing styles and values of American society. In the 20th century, Adams was featured on a commemorative medal for the American Numismatic Society, which featured a more realistic portrait of Adams based on contemporary descriptions.
The significance of John Adams’ appearance on coins lies in his contributions to American history and politics. As one of the country’s Founding Fathers and the second President of the United States, Adams played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s early development, making him a fitting subject for commemorative coins. For numismatists, coins featuring Adams are a valuable piece of history and a reminder of the importance of preserving the past for future generations.
The Value of John Adams’ Presidential Dollar
Several factors affect the value of John Adams’ Presidential Dollar. The coin’s condition, rarity, and historical significance all play a role in determining its value. Coins that have not been in circulation and are in pristine condition are more valuable than those that show signs of wear and tear. Additionally, coins that have low mintage numbers, or were only minted for a short time, are considered rare and more valuable.
As of 2021, the current market value of a John Adams Presidential Dollar ranges from $2 to $10, depending on its condition. However, if the coin is graded as “perfect” or “mint state,” its value can reach up to $20 or more. The coin’s value can also appreciate over time, making it a worthy addition to any coin collection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, John Adams’ appearance on coins is a testament to his contributions to American history. The John Adams Presidential Dollar is a rare and valuable coin that serves as a reminder of Adams’ legacy. Understanding the design, history, and value of the coin is crucial for any numismatist and coin collector. By exploring the coin’s features, we can appreciate the historical significance of John Adams’ appearance on coins and the relevance of his legacy today.
As Rich News continues to report on the latest trends and news in cryptocurrency and numismatics, we hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the world of coins. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a beginner, understanding the value and historical significance of coins like the John Adams Presidential Dollar can enhance your appreciation of numismatics and American history.