News Summary

The U.S. Mint has launched a new $1 coin in Michigan, celebrating the state’s contributions to automotive manufacturing. Unveiled at the Detroit Historical Society, the coin features a 1930s assembly line honoring the impact of autoworkers on American society. Designed by Steven Bieda, the coin serves as a tribute to the state’s manufacturing excellence and includes the iconic Statue of Liberty on its reverse side. Collectors can purchase it through the U.S. Mint’s website, furthering a series that represents each state’s unique contributions.

Detroit, Michigan – A new $1 coin has been launched in Michigan, part of a U.S. Mint series that celebrates innovations throughout the nation. This coin, which features autoworkers on a 1930s-era assembly line, is designed to honor Michigan’s deep-rooted contributions to automotive manufacturing.

The unveiling took place at an event on April 8, 2025, at the Detroit Historical Society, where officials highlighted the significance of the coin’s design. It serves as both a tribute to the state’s manufacturing excellence and its impact on the lives of working-class families. The image of the assembly line reflects the transformative role that automobiles and mass production techniques played in American society.

The design process for the coin was spearheaded by Steven Bieda, a 37th District Court Judge and Michigan’s liaison to the U.S. Mint, appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. He indicated that the assembly line was not only a significant technological advancement that made automobiles more affordable but also crucial in fostering the growth of America’s middle class.

Before settling on the assembly line theme, Bieda considered several other designs, including those representing Motown music, the Mackinac Bridge, and traffic safety advancements. Ultimately, the assembly line was chosen for its prominence in the state’s heritage. The design underwent several revisions to ensure a more accurate depiction of the busy environment typical of an automotive assembly line, which is pivotal to Michigan’s identity.

The coin showcases two distinct images: one side features the assembly line, while the opposite side portrays the Statue of Liberty, designed by Ronald D. Sanders and sculpted by John P. McGraw. Michigan’s automotive history is further enriched by Bieda’s personal connection, noting that his family has a strong background in the auto industry.

Eligible collectors can purchase these coins not for general circulation but as collector’s items. The pricing includes $36.25 for a roll of 25 coins and $123.50 for a bag containing 100 coins. As part of a broader initiative by the U.S. Mint, which began in 2018, coins representing each state and U.S. territory are to be released by 2032, with 28 states already accounted for in the series.

The assembly line coin has garnered attention from various officials, who underscored the importance of capturing and interpreting Michigan’s innovative history. This initiative is part of a legislative requirement mandating that the U.S. Mint produce state coins reflecting each state’s unique contributions.

Individuals interested in adding this coin to their collection can find it available through the U.S. Mint’s official website.