Which law authorized the commemorative coin program for America’s 250th anniversary?

The Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020 authorized the commemorative coin program for America’s 250th anniversary.

The law created authority for special 2026 semiquincentennial designs across several denominations. The program includes a dime, five quarters, a half dollar, and a one-dollar coin, while cents and nickels remain part of the regular series without the same commemorative treatment.

The legislation also authorized other coin-design initiatives, including the American Women Quarters Program. Congress passed the act with unanimous support in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, and it was signed into law in 2021.

The coins are distinct from ordinary circulating designs because they were created to mark a specific national milestone. Their designs connect the America250 anniversary with the long history of U.S. coinage, which has often been used to honor leaders, places, ideals, and historic events.