The 2015-W Lady Bird Johnson First Spouse $10 Gold Coin Proof is a unique and valuable collectible for coin enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Released on August 27, 2015, this coin honors Lady Bird Johnson, the wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson. With only a limited number produced, this gold coin is not just a piece of currency but also a tribute to a significant figure in American history. This guide will explore the background of the coin, Lady Bird Johnson’s life, its design features, and its market value.
Overview of the Coin
The 2015 Lady Bird Johnson Gold Coin is part of the First Spouse Gold Coin series issued by the United States Mint. Below are some key details about this coin:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | August 27, 2015 |
| Composition | 0.5 ounces of .9999 fine gold |
| Maximum Mintage | 10,000 |
| Proof Coins Produced | 2,653 |
| Mint Location | West Point (W mintmark) |
| Series | First Spouse Gold Coin series |
This coin is the fourth in the 2015 series and the 38th overall in the First Spouse series. These coins are released in conjunction with the Presidential Dollar series and celebrate the contributions of America’s First Ladies.
Who Was Lady Bird Johnson?
Lady Bird Johnson, born Claudia Alta Taylor on December 22, 1912, in Karnack, Texas, was not just the First Lady but also a remarkable woman in her own right. Here are some notable points about her life:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Claudia Alta Taylor |
| Birth Date | December 22, 1912 |
| Education | BA from the University of Texas (1930) |
| Journalism Degree | Bachelor’s degree in journalism (1934) |
| Marriage | Married Lyndon Baines Johnson (1934) |
| First Lady Tenure | 1963 to 1969 |
| Death | July 11, 2007 |
Lady Bird received her nickname as a child, though its meaning is somewhat unclear. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas in 1930 and later earned another degree in journalism in 1934.
In the same year, she married Lyndon Baines Johnson, who later became the 36th President of the United States. With her financial support, Lyndon Johnson launched his political career. Lady Bird was a savvy businesswoman, investing her inheritance in various media properties and becoming the first First Spouse to make a million dollars through her own efforts.
As First Lady from 1963 to 1969, she focused on improving the beauty of Washington, D.C., and America’s highways. She was a strong advocate for civil rights and was often a calming influence during her husband’s presidency. Lady Bird Johnson passed away on July 11, 2007, leaving a lasting legacy.
Coin Design Features
Front (Obverse)
The obverse (front) of the coin features a portrait of Lady Bird Johnson. Here are the details:
| Design Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Image | Bust of Lady Bird Johnson |
| Inscription | “LADY BIRD JOHNSON” |
| Motto | “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
| Year | 2015 |
| Mintmark | “W” (West Point) |
| Designer Initials | Linda Fox (LLF), Michael Gaudioso (MG) |
The initials of the designer, Linda Fox (LLF), are located under the motto, while the initials of Mint Medallic Artist Michael Gaudioso (MG) can be found beneath the mintmark.
Back (Reverse)
The reverse (back) of the coin features the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument. Here are the details:
| Design Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Images | Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument |
| Inscription | “BEAUTIFY OUR CITIES, PARKS AND HIGHWAYS” |
| Additional Text | “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “$10,” “1/2 OZ,” “.9999 FINE GOLD” |
| Designer Initials | Chris Costello (CTC), Renata Gordon (RG) |
The reverse design was created by artist Chris Costello (CTC), while the engraving was done by Renata Gordon (RG).
Edge Features
The edge of the coin is reeded, which is common for coins in the First Spouse 1/2 oz Gold Coin series.
Market Value and Notable Sales
Since its release, the 2015-W Lady Bird Johnson Gold Coin has attracted collectors due to its limited mintage and historical significance. The coin has been graded by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), with some of the highest grades reaching PR70. These top grades indicate coins in perfect condition.
Here are some noteworthy sales:
| Grade | Auction House | Date | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCGS PR70DCAM | eBay | July 27, 2024 | $1,395 |
| PCGS PR70DCAM | GreatCollections | May 24, 2020 | $660 |
| NGC PF70 | Heritage Auctions | December 14, 2018 | $660 |
These sales show that collectors are willing to pay a premium for high-quality, well-preserved examples of this coin.
Conclusion
The 2015-W Lady Bird Johnson First Spouse $10 Gold Coin Proof is a valuable piece for both collectors and history enthusiasts. With its limited production and beautiful design, it not only represents a moment in American history but also honors the legacy of Lady Bird Johnson. As the first First Spouse to achieve wealth through her own efforts, her contributions to civil rights and the beautification of America make this coin a significant collectible. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, this coin is a meaningful addition to any collection.
FAQ’s
What is the 2015-W Lady Bird Johnson First Spouse $10 Gold Coin Proof made of?
The coin is made of 0.5 ounces of .9999 fine gold. This high purity makes it a valuable collectible.
How many of the 2015-W Lady Bird Johnson Gold Coins were produced?
Only 2,653 collectible Proof coins were produced, out of a maximum authorized mintage of 10,000 pieces. This limited availability contributes to its desirability among collectors.
What is the significance of Lady Bird Johnson in American history?
Lady Bird Johnson was the First Lady from 1963 to 1969 and focused on beautifying Washington, D.C., and advocating for civil rights. She is also noted for being the first First Spouse to become a millionaire through her own business efforts.