By CoinWeek…
Coin collectors, numismatists, and space enthusiasts are invited to a monumental “Release Party” as the United States Mint officially unveils the Texas Innovation Dollar, the 29th coin in its American Innovation® program, on Tuesday, July 29th, 2025, at 12:00 PM (Noon). The historic event will take place at the iconic Space Center Houston, located at 1601 NASA Parkway, Houston, Texas 77058.
The Texas Innovation Dollar’s reverse design strikingly features an astronaut walking in space, while its common obverse proudly displays the Statue of Liberty. This design, centered around the theme of “SPACE WALKER,” highlights the profound significance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and the enduring appeal of numismatics. The chosen release date is particularly meaningful, marking the 67th anniversary of President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s signing of the National Aeronautics and Space Act on July 29, 1958, which formally established the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) “to provide for research into problems of flight within and outside the earth’s atmosphere.”
This “TEXAS” sized celebration offers a unique opportunity for historians, educators, and coin collectors from across the state and nation to gather at Space Center Houston, an award-winning family attraction that provides an unparalleled behind-the-scenes view of the Johnson Space Center. An entrance fee of $33 per person is required for facility access, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early and dedicate ample time to explore the center’s captivating exhibits and interactive experiences.
Meet Astronaut Jerry Ross
The event will feature a distinguished special guest speaker: Retired NASA Astronaut Colonel Jerry Ross, renowned as NASA’s “Frequent Flyer.” Colonel Ross, who holds the impressive distinction of serving on seven Space Shuttle crews and ranking among the top three individuals for most spacewalks, will share his incredible journey of walking in space. Attendees will have the chance to win autographed copies of his award-winning books as door prizes.
A live video presentation will be delivered by the U.S. Mint’s Acting Director, Kristie L. McNally, and all attendees will receive complimentary official “early release” sets of P (Philadelphia) and D (Denver) mint dollars, which will not be issued for general circulation. Dr. Lawrence S. Brown, past chairman of the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC), will also provide insights into the themes and designs of all U.S. coins and medals.
The “Release Party” is proudly hosted by a collaboration of leading numismatic organizations and individuals, including the American Numismatic Association (ANA), Texas Numismatic Association (TNA), the Duncans of U.S. Coins & Jewelry of Houston, Mike Fuljenz of Universal Coin and Bullion in Beaumont, and a variety of collector friends and local coin clubs. Representatives from these groups will be on hand for a planned social occasion, fostering connections among like-minded numismatists.
For more information and to register your interest for a group discount, please contact Dr. Ralph Ross via email at [email protected]. While pre-registration is not mandatory, it helps organizers gauge attendance. Further details can also be found at www.usmint.gov or www.money.org.
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