Commemorative Coin Honors Boys Town: A Century of Changing Youth's Lives

The Boys Town 2017-P Uncirculated Silver Dollar commemorates the centennial of the non-profit organization dedicated to assisting at-risk youth. The coin features a young girl looking up at a tree branch on the obverse and inscriptions on the reverse, including the organization's motto, "When you help a child today... you write the history of tomorrow." The silver dollar, designed by Emily Damstra and sculpted by Joseph Menna, has a mintage of 12,307 out of an authorized 350,000 and sells for $50 to $65 in the aftermarket.

Commemorative Coin Honors Boys Town: A Century of Empowering At-Risk Youth

Introduction

Boys Town, a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to providing refuge, education, and opportunities for at-risk youth, has been immortalized through a commemorative coin program issued by the United States Mint. The program, consisting of a clad half dollar, a silver dollar, and a $5 gold coin, commemorates the organization's centennial anniversary in 2017.

Establishment and Mission of Boys Town

Boys Town was founded in 1917 by Father Edward Flanagan, an Irish-American priest. Driven by compassion and a belief in the inherent goodness of every child, Flanagan established Boys Town as a haven for wayward boys, regardless of their race or religion. The organization's primary mission was to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where troubled youth could receive guidance, education, and a second chance.

Expansion and Recognition

Over the years, Boys Town expanded its reach, establishing facilities across the United States. It gained national prominence in the 1938 film "Boys Town," starring Spencer Tracy and Mickey Rooney. The film captured the organization's unique approach and inspired countless individuals to support its mission.

Legacy of Service

Father Flanagan's legacy continues to inspire Boys Town's mission. After his passing in 1948, the organization has tirelessly assisted countless boys and girls, providing them with opportunities to overcome adversity and achieve their full potential. Today, Boys Town reaches over two million lives annually, transforming the lives of at-risk youth through its comprehensive programs.

Commemorative Coin Program

In recognition of Boys Town's remarkable century of service, Nebraska Representative Jeff Fortenberry introduced a commemorative coin bill that was enacted in 2015. The program authorized the production of 350,000 silver dollars in uncirculated and Proof finishes, 300,000 copper-nickel clad half dollars, and 50,000 $5 gold coins. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of these coins benefits Boys Town, supporting its ongoing mission.

Market Performance and Collectibility

The Boys Town commemorative coin program underperformed initial expectations. The 2017-S uncirculated half dollar and the 2017-P silver dollar Proof were the best-selling coins in their respective formats. However, the 2017-P uncirculated silver dollar sold only 12,307 pieces out of an authorized mintage of 350,000.

Numismatic experts attribute the program's underperformance to a lack of widespread interest in the coins among collectors. The 2017-P uncirculated silver dollar sells for approximately $50-$65 on the secondary market, while its graded MS69 counterpart commands a similar price to its original government packaging.

Coin Design

The Boys Town commemorative coins feature evocative designs that capture the essence of the organization's mission.

Obverse:

• Depicts a solitary young girl sitting on the ground, gazing up at a tree branch, symbolizing hope and seeking guidance.
• Inscription: "BOYS TOWN" along the upper center rim, divided by the tree branch.
• "P" mintmark indicating its production at the Philadelphia Mint.
• Motto: "When you help a child today..." (continued on the reverse).
• Inscriptions: "IN GOD WE TRUST," "LIBERTY," and "1917-2017."
• Initials of designer Emily Damstra ("ESD") and sculptor Joseph Menna ("JFM").

Reverse:

• Inscriptions: "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "ONE DOLLAR," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM."
• Initials of designer Emily Damstra ("ESD") and sculptor Joseph Menna ("JFM") flanking the denomination.

Edge: Reeded

Conclusion

The Boys Town commemorative coin program serves as a lasting tribute to the organization's century-long commitment to empowering at-risk youth. While the coins may not have achieved widespread commercial success, they represent the enduring legacy of Father Flanagan and the countless lives that Boys Town has touched. As a reminder of the organization's mission, the coins stand as a testament to the transformative power of compassion, guidance, and belief in the human spirit.