2009-P $1 Louis Braille Silver Commem - BU

Issued to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Louis Braille, the inventor of the tactile reading and writing system that bears his name. The 2009-P Silver Dollar honors the global impact of Braille literacy. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, this Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) version features clean matte-style surfaces with bold devices, and is especially noteworthy for being the first U.S. coin to feature readable Braille characters.

Historical Insight:

Born in France in 1809, Louis Braille lost his sight at a young age and went on to revolutionize accessibility for the blind with his invention of the Braille system at just 15 years old. The system has become the global standard for tactile reading and continues to empower millions of people around the world. This coin commemorates not only Braille's invention but also the broader movement for educational equality and accessibility.

Collector Note:

The 2009-P BU Louis Braille Silver Dollar is both historically and numismatically significant. As the first U.S. coin to include tactile Braille, it holds unique appeal for collectors of educational, accessibility, and design-first issues. With a relatively low mintage and meaningful symbolism, it stands out as one of the most distinctive modern commemorative coins ever issued.

Highlights:

• Denomination: $1 USD (Legal Tender)
• Year: 2009
• Mint: Philadelphia ("P" mintmark)
• Condition: Brilliant Uncirculated (BU)
• Obverse: Features a portrait of Louis Braille as a child reading a book in Braille. Inscriptions include "LOUIS BRAILLE," "IN GOD WE TRUST," "LIBERTY," and "1809-2009."
• Reverse: Depicts a young student reading a book in Braille beneath a rising sun. The word "Braille" is shown in both standard letters and actual tactile Braille dots—the first time this has appeared on a U.S. coin. Additional inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "ONE DOLLAR."