1996 $5 Olympic Cauldron MS70

Commemorative coins have been popular since the days of the ancient Greeks and Romans. In the beginning they recorded and honored important events, and passed along the news of the day. Many modern nations have issued commemorative coins, and they are highly esteemed by collectors. No nation has surpassed the United States when it comes to commemorative coins. The unique position occupied by commemorative in the United States coinage is largely due to the fact that, with few exceptions, all commemorative coins have real historical significance. The progress and advance of people in the New World are presented in an interesting and instructive manner on the commemorative issues. Such a record of facts artistically presented on U.S. gold, silver, and other memorial issues appeals strongly to the collector who favors the historical side of numismatics. It is the historical features of the commemorative, in fact, that create interest among many people who would otherwise have little interest in coins.