A few moments ago, on the west side of the Capitol, Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States. On a specially built platform, President Obama put his hand on the same bible that Abraham Lincoln used at is inauguration in 1861 and was sworn in by John Roberts, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Millions millions of people watching on the National Mall and around the world heard President Obama take the oath of office:
I Barack Hussein Obama do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. So help me G-D.
Whether you voted for President Obama or not, this is a historical moment that everyone should savor. We wish the new president well and hope he will pursue the right policies to better this country.
Numismatically, President Obama’s election has caused opportunists to come out of the woodwork with numismatic collectibles that potential collectors should think twice about before purchasing. We have seen the advertisements on television, in magazines, and as fliers in other mail. They are advertised as “exclusive” and “limited editions” with prices set at one price, but if act today, you can receive the coins at a lower price.
If you buy these coins, please remember that these vendors are colorizing business strikes made by the US Mint and are worth their face value. Coins are colorized or thinly plated with less with less than a few cents of gold. Although the work is made with real coins, they are numismatically worthless. Similar collectibles for other events have not increased in value. In some cases they worth less than their issue price.
The US Mint warns that the coins are not official US Mint products and not endorsed by the Mint.
Please enjoy the view of history from where ever you are. But please consider another collectible to honor this history. Pins, buttons, clothing, hats, copies of The Washington Post from the day of the inauguration are wonderful alternatives that you can appreciate for years to come.
Loading ...