DC Comics Superheroes to Feature on Special Coins in US Mint Partnership
WASHINGTON – DC Comics fans and coin collectors alike have something exciting to look forward to. The U.S. Mint has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products to launch a limited series of superhero-themed coins and medals. This initiative, set to begin in the summer of 2025, will feature iconic DC Comics characters such as Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. These beloved superheroes will be among the first to be immortalized on 24-karat gold coins, .999 fine silver medals, and non-precious metal (clad) medals.
The collaboration marks the first time the U.S. Mint has entered into a public-private partnership of this magnitude. The series will continue over three years, with three additional superheroes being released in 2026 and another three in 2027. The public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite DC superheroes to be included in the series, ensuring that the most cherished characters are represented.
Ventris C. Gibson, Director of the U.S. Mint, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This opportunity with DC signals an exciting new era for the Mint as we continue our efforts to engage seasoned collectors while also connecting with younger, more diverse audiences. We are thrilled to highlight the role that comic books have played in upholding American values, and the fact that the American public will be a guiding force in shaping this coin and medal series makes it even more special.”
The U.S. Mint has a long tradition of producing coins and medals that pay homage to America’s values, icons, and significant moments. This new series continues that tradition by recognizing the impact of comic art on American ideals. Comic books are often seen as modern mythology, presenting heroes that embody uniquely American ideals such as always doing the right thing, supporting the underdog, and being empathetic.
Joseph Menna, the U.S. Mint’s Chief Engraver, will design and sculpt all the obverse (heads side) designs of the coins and medals. Menna, who has an extensive background in both classical and digital sculpture, has previously worked for DC Comics and is a collector himself. He expressed his excitement about the project, saying, “For me, the real gift of creating coins and comic book collectibles is how happy they make people. With that incredible honor comes great responsibility. Nothing beats bringing joy to people’s lives. Comic books are my greatest inspiration. They taught me how to draw, to dream, and helped me through challenging times. I am really looking forward to celebrating the impact of comic art through coins and medals.”
The public voting period will run from July 10 through August 11, 2024. Fans can cast their votes on the U.S. Mint’s website, ensuring that the series represents the most beloved DC superheroes. This public participation is a unique aspect of the initiative, making it even more special for fans and collectors.
Founded in 1934 as National Allied Publications, DC is one of the oldest comic book publishers in the world. The Mint’s decision to collaborate with DC is based on the publisher’s pioneering role in the comic art industry and the natural alignment of its primary characters with American values. This historic arrangement promises more exciting collaborations in the future.
Preston Kevin Lewis, Head of Consumer Products & Retail Strategy for Warner Bros. Discovery, also shared his excitement about the collaboration. “It is an honor to collaborate with the Mint and immortalize DC’s iconic place in American pop culture with this incredible set of collectible coins featuring the DC ‘Trinity’: Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. While the first set of coins releases in time for DC’s 90th anniversary in 2025, we’re eager to see how fans vote this summer when they select the next DC characters joining this engaging collaboration with the Mint.”
The U.S. Mint, established in 1792, is the nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage. It produces circulating coinage for the nation to conduct its trade and commerce, as well as numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; silver and bronze medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. Its numismatic programs are self-sustaining and operate at no cost to taxpayers.
DC, part of Warner Bros. Discovery, creates iconic characters and enduring stories and is one of the world’s largest publishers of comics and graphic novels. DC’s creative work entertains audiences of every generation around the world, with its stories and characters integrated across Warner Bros. Discovery’s film, television, animation, consumer products, home entertainment, games, and themed experiences divisions.
Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products extends the company’s powerful portfolio of entertainment brands and franchises into the lives of fans around the world. The organization partners with best-in-class licensees globally on award-winning toy, fashion, home décor, and publishing programs inspired by the biggest franchises from Warner Bros.’ film, television, animation, and games studios, HBO, Discovery, DC, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Eurosport, Adult Swim, and more.
As the U.S. Mint and DC Comics embark on this historic collaboration, fans and collectors can look forward to a unique and exciting series of coins and medals that celebrate the enduring legacy of DC superheroes and their impact on American culture.
Source: 7News, Scripps News
