The 2015-W Lady Bird Johnson First Spouse $10 Gold Coin Proof is a sought-after item for both numismatists and collectors. Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson, the 36th First Lady of the United States, is commemorated on this breathtaking gold coin for her legacy as an advocate for the beautification of America’s cities and highways.
Overview of the First Spouse Gold Coin Program
In 2007, the First Spouse Gold Coin Program was inaugurated to commemorate the spouses of U.S. Presidents in the same chronological order as the Presidential $1 Coin series. The denomination of each coin is $10, and it is made of 24-karat gold and weighs 1/2 ounce. The program emphasizes the significant contributions of the First Ladies to American history, with a particular focus on their impact on public life.
Lady Bird Johnson’s Legacy and Coin Design
The design of this coin serves as a testament to Lady Bird Johnson’s commitment to environmental conservation and beautification. Lady Bird Johnson’s portrait is depicted on the obverse, which is encircled by the words “LADY BIRD JOHNSON,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the years of her presidency (1963-1969). This design, which was created by Linda Fox and sculpted by Michael Gaudioso, is a tribute to her significant contributions to the promotion of environmental stewardship.
Renata Gordon sculpted the reverse, which features the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument against a background of blooming blossoms. The design was created by Chris Costello. Lady Bird Johnson’s dedication to the enhancement of America’s landscapes is exemplified by this imagery. The phrase “BEAUTIFY OUR CITIES, PARKS & HIGHWAYS” is inscribed above the scene, a tribute to her involvement in the Highway Beautification Act.
Mintage and Specifications
- Denomination: $10
- Gold Content: 1/2 troy ounce of 24-karat gold (.9999 fine)
- Weight: 15.554 grams
- Diameter: 26.49 mm
- Mint Mark: “W” (West Point)
- Mintage Limit: 10,000 (combined proof and uncirculated)
- Finish Options: Uncirculated and proof
The proof variant of the Lady Bird Johnson coin was priced at $765 upon its release on August 27, 2015. Based on gold prices, pricing was susceptible to market fluctuations. Each coin is presented in a custom hardwood presentation case and is encapsulated with a certificate of authenticity, which further enhances its allure to collectors.
Current Market Value and Pricing
The proof version was priced at $765 at the time of its release, while the uncirculated version was available for $745. The market value of the Lady Bird Johnson gold coin, as with other First Spouse coins, is subject to fluctuations in accordance with the price of gold and prevailing demand.
These coins are frequently appraised at over $1,500 in proof condition, particularly when they are certified in flawless PR70 by grading services such as NGC or PCGS, according to the most recent data.
Comparison of Versions
| Feature | Proof Version | Uncirculated Version |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | High-gloss with mirrored fields and frosted designs | Matte, smooth finish |
| Initial Price | $765 | $745 |
| Mintage | Limited (Proof and Uncirculated combined: 10,000) | Limited (Proof and Uncirculated combined: 10,000) |
| Market Value (Approx.) | $1,500+ (in PR70) | $1,200+ (in MS70) |
| Packaging | Encapsulated in a hardwood presentation box | Encapsulated in a hardwood presentation box |
Investment Appeal and Collection
The Lady Bird Johnson First Spouse Gold Coin is distinguished by its historical significance and its relatively low mintage numbers. This coin is classified as scarce in comparison to other commemorative issues due to its production of less than 2,000 proof coins.
The highest premiums are typically paid for coins that are graded PR70 (perfect proof condition) by third-party grading services such as NGC or PCGS. Some of these coins have been sold for over $2,000 at auctions or dealer listings.
This coin is indispensable for those who possess the entire First Spouse series and are striving to complete the collection. Moreover, the coin’s purity and gold content have attracted the attention of investors, in addition to its appeal to collectors of presidential memorabilia.
Conservation and Care
Proper care is necessary to preserve the coin’s value and condition, as is the case with any numismatic investment. The coin should be stored in a cool, dry environment and maintained in its original capsule. It is imperative to preserve the hardwood presentation case and certificate of authenticity for those who intend to resell the coin in the future to guarantee the highest possible resale value.
Bronze Medal Option for Lady Bird Johnson
Bronze replicas of the First Spouse coins were also produced by the U.S. Mint, in addition to the gold coin. These bronze medals, which are priced at a substantially lower rate, are available in sets or individually. They provide a more cost-effective alternative for those who wish to commemorate Lady Bird Johnson’s contributions to the nation without the need to invest in gold.
Collectors of historical U.S. coins must possess the 2015-W Lady Bird Johnson First Spouse $10 Gold Coin. It is a valuable and beautiful tribute to one of America’s most influential First Ladies, due to its high gold content, limited mintage, and striking design.
Whether you are a seasoned coin collector or a novice seeking to invest in gold, this coin provides a unique combination of intrinsic value and historical significance that is difficult to disregard. Before it becomes even more limited on the market, guarantee that you acquire this piece of American heritage.