The Korean War’s 38th Anniversary and the 38th Parallel
An unusual anniversary was remembered for the Korean War Memorial. It was actually the 38th anniversary of the division of North and South Korea. But the number 38 was significant because the two countries were separated at the 38th degree of latitude. A Silver Dollar, in both Uncirculated and Proof strikings, was the lone coin to mark this anniversary.
US Mint designer John Mercanti designed the obverse of this coin. It depicts an American army infantryman charging up a hill with his rifle at the ready. Two American jet fighters are flying above him and naval ships are depicted below him. The years “1951” and “1953” are prominent to relate the years of the American involvement in the conflict. The words “THIRTY EIGHTH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE KOREA”, “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY” crowd the obverse design.
The reverse of the coin is much less crowded with an outline of the map of Korea, with the line of division at the 38th parallel is displayed, as well as a “yin/yang” symbol representing dualism. Looking at the map from the right side is an American bald eagle’s head. The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” as well as the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the denomination “ONE DOLLAR” complete the reverse design. The designer was US Mint sculptor-engraver James Ferrell.
Struck in both Uncirculated and Proof finishes, the coins fell slightly short of the authorized 1,000,000 coins allowed with 213,049 Uncirculated and 618,488 Proof coins struck. The profits from the proceeds went towards the construction of the Korean War Veterans Memorial.
| Date & Mintmark | Denomination | Mintage | Value |
| 1991-D | Silver Dollar | 213,049 | $50 |
| 1991-P | Silver Dollar | 618,488 | $50 |
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