2016 New Hampshire 1 Dollar 1-oz Silver Bobcat Abenaki Proof

Honoring a Lesser Known Tribe

While there are tribes throughout the United States that are well known to anyone who has gone through the American school system, the Abenaki is one that is often overlooked. The Abenaki fiercely resisted attempts to colonize New England and played major roles in several conflicts, including the French and Indian wars. Because of the threats posed to them in New England, many headed north to Canada, where they were given land that remains in their hands in the form of reservations. The obverse of this coin features an aging Abenaki tribesman. While many other coins in the series show men with many feathers in their headdresses, the man on this coin has only two. With his shoulders visible, so too are parts of his traditional clothing.

On the reverse is a bobcat. The wild cat hunts in the woodlands of North America and plays a vital role in the Granite State’s ecosystem. Thanks to the efforts of children at the Well School in Peterborough, it was named the state’s official wildcat. The cat’s ties to those students’ efforts make this coin a particularly good piece for conversation and education, especially for civics teachers.

• FROM THE SECOND YEAR OF ISSUE -- This was one of five coins issued in the second year of the Native American Dollar program.

• STUNNING 99.9% SILVER -- The 1-oz Silver Bobcat Abenaki was struck at the Native American Mint from 99.9% fine silver and has a beautiful proof finish that accentuates the design beautifully.

• $1 BUT NOT LEGAL TENDER -- As part of the Native American Dollar Series, this coin has a face value of $1. In spite of that, it is not legal tender due to the fact that it was not issued by the United States government.

• A COIN WITH A PURPOSE -- Purchasing coins in the Native American Dollar Series gives support to Native American awareness efforts, to which proceeds are donated.

The Native American Dollar series debuted in 2015 and has become one of the most unique options available to collectors. It bears a face value but is not legal tender and was issued by a government but not a national government. The series honors the first Americans, who have managed to preserve their cultures in spite of major changes in the politics and lifestyles surrounding them. It also honors animals that are a significant part of ecosystems throughout the country. Don’t miss your chance to add this unique coin to your collection.