Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Coin Act

The Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Coin Act authorized the U.S. Treasury to mint and issue a limited-edition $1 silver coin in 2009 to mark the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. The design of the coin was required to be emblematic of Lincoln's life and legacy, providing a way for collectors and the public to commemorate the historic milestone.

For citizens, the bill established that these coins would be available for purchase for one year, with a $10 surcharge added to the price of each coin. These extra funds were designated to support the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission in its efforts to provide educational programs and historical commemorations across the country.