COIN PRODUCTION AT THE WEST POINT MINT

Precision, attention to quality and detail, pride in craftsmanship, and careful accountability are qualities that shine through in the coin production activities at the West Point Mint. Under plant manager Ellen McCullom, the facility strikes millions of precious metals coins each year for investors and collectors around the world in addition to its duties safeguarding billions in precious metals assets.

Due to the high security of the facility, it is not open to public tours, but this article will provide an inside look at how coins are produced at the West Point Mint.

Current production responsibilities include striking the American Eagle coins in gold, platinum, and silver, the 24 karat gold American Buffalo coins, and various annual commemorative coins. Recent special issues have included last year’s enhanced uncirculated American Silver Eagle, this year’s immensely popular curved Baseball Hall of Fame Gold Coins, and the upcoming reverse proof silver and 24 karat gold Kennedy Half Dollars issued to mark the 50th anniversary of the series.

The production process for many gold coins begins with the 400 ounce gold bars which the facility safeguards. Some of the bars are sent to contractors where they will be alloyed and manufactured into planchets. The planchets for silver coins are typically sourced directly from contractors.

The burnishing room

The burnished planchets are washed and then receive an ultra sonic drying.

The unfinished dies are polished using hand tools and diamond paste.

Striking the 24 karat gold Kennedy Half Dollars

To read the complete article, see: Coin Production at the West Point Mint (news.coinupdate.com/coin-production-at-the-west-point-mint-4406/)

Wayne Homren, Editor

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