Louis Braille Bicentennial Proof Silver Dollar $1 (2009)

Honor the legacy of Louis Braille with this exquisite proof silver dollar, struck in 90% silver to commemorate the bicentennial of his birth. The obverse presents a distinguished portrait of Braille himself, while the reverse captures an inspiring scene of a child discovering the world through Braille text. Crafted by master designers and sculptors of the U.S. Mint, this commemorative coin celebrates the transformative impact of Braille literacy on countless lives. A profound addition to any collection.

Louis Braille was born in Coupvray, France, near Paris, on January 4, 1809. At the age of three, he lost the sight in his left eye as the result of an accident in his father's workshop. An infection spread to his right eye and he became completely blind by the age of four. At the age of 10, Braille received a scholarship to attend the Royal Institute for Blind Children in Paris, where he became the youngest student. At the school, most instruction was oral, but Braille read books for the blind, which had large letters embossed on the pages.