Watson Coleman, Toomey Introduce Semiquincentennial Commemorative Coin Act

Bill would direct the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the establishment of the United States

Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman announced the introduction of H.R. 4429, the Semiquincentennial Commemorative Coin Act. The year 2026 will be the 250^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As a member of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, Congresswoman Watson Coleman is working to prepare the nation for the commemoration of this historic milestone with national programs and signature projects.

The Semiquincentennial Commemorative Coin Act will be one of many opportunities for Congress to help commemorate our 250th anniversary. The legislation directs the U.S. Mint to produce commemorative coins in 2026 for the occasion. The design of the coins will be in part determined by suggestions from the America250 Commission along with public comments and input.

A companion bill, S. 2384, has been introduced by Senator Patrick Toomey of Pennsylvania.

“July 4, 1776 was an essential milestone in the history of progress of humanity towards a fair, just, and democratic society; a journey towards a more perfect union that continues to this day,” said Rep. Watson Coleman, “As we approach the 250^th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it’s an honor to introduce legislation that helps commemorate this momentous occasion.”

“In 2026, America will celebrate 250 years of the world’s greatest experiment in self-governance,” said Senator Pat Toomey. “It is only right that this moment in our shared history be immortalized in more ways than one. I am pleased to support the Semiquincentennial Commemorative Coin Act, which will create a fitting token to this time of national celebration.”  

“The Declaration of Independence is the cornerstone of our Nation, and in 2026 we will celebrate the 250^th anniversary of its signing,” said Rep. Rob Aderholt (AL-04). “Enshrining the anniversary on U.S. currency is a great way to honor this milestone in our Republic.  As a young boy I remember people collecting the Bicentennial two dollar bills back in 1976, and how it generated excitement and interest in our nation’s birthday.  I am proud to cosponsor the Semi quincentennial Commemorative Coin Act to help generate that same level of excitement and patriotism in 2026.”

“Two hundred fifty years ago, America’s great democratic experiment began. As a Commissioner on the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, I am proud to support the Semiquincentennial Commemorative Coin Act and join the bipartisan efforts to recognize this momentous occasion,” said Senator Bob Casey of Pennsylvania. “This legislation would celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States of America by directing the U.S. Mint to produce commemorative coins and transfer the associated sale surcharges to the National Park Service. Supporting America’s national park system is an appropriate way to commemorate this historic occasion.”

“I am proud to co-sponsor the Semiquincentennial Commemorative Coin Act – a bipartisan piece of legislation that commemorates the 250^th anniversary of our nation’s independence,” said Rep. Dwight Evans (PA-03). “My district, Philadelphia, is the birthplace of America’s democracy. It is where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed. And is home to the Liberty Bell – a symbol that reminds us of all the achievements of our great country. Although the fight for a more perfect union is far from finished, the Commemorative Coin Act will help us uphold the values of America for years to come.”

“The Declaration of Independence marks an unparalleled milestone in the history of our republic, and in mankind’s fight for liberty through the establishment of just and limited government,” said Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American founding.”

“As the daughter of Cuban exiles, who fled tyranny to find freedom in America, it is an honor to represent my community as a Co-Chair of the Semiquincentennial Commission. I look forward to working with leaders from across our country to plan America’s 250th anniversary – honoring our exceptional nation’s freedom and patriotism,” said Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (FL-27). “This commemorative coin kicks off the official America250 celebration and I urge my colleagues to join us with their support!”

“I’m proud to help introduce bipartisan legislation to commemorate the 250th anniversary of our country’s independence,” said Senator Shaheen. “As a member of the official Congressional commission to celebrate this landmark occasion, I’m honored to help reflect on our nation’s history, as well as the progress still needed to advance our founding fathers and mothers’ vision of freedom. The bipartisan support for these commemorative coins shows our unified commitment to celebrating our great country’s achievements and upholding the promise of America in the years to come.”

Text of the Semiquincentennial Commemorative Coin Act can be found here.