The $30 million toe in the water

Artist Chris Polentz has been chosen to design the 2026 official proof and collectible coin of the Declaration of Independence, marking the United States' 250th anniversary. The U.S. Mint has selected Polentz for his unique design process, which blended traditional drawing methods with digital techniques.

Polentz, a seasoned artist with nearly 40 years of teaching experience and a freelance illustrator, was initially hesitant when he received the accpetance email for the Artististic Infusion Program. He thought it was a phishing scam, but it turned out to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Three designs, two and a half years, and a dash of spontaneity

Polentz worked on three designs for the U.S. Mint over two and a half years,with two designs featured on the front and reverse sides of the 2025 Liberty coins and one design featured on the front of the 2026 Declaration of Independence Coin. The swirling eagle on the reverse side of the Declaration of Independence Coin was a theme Polentz decided on spontaneously,aiming for a powerful and modern design.

Polentz's design process involved a mix of traditional drawing methods and digital techniques. He used a combination of pencils, ink, and digital tools to create the designs, which were then reviewed and refined by the U.S.. Mint.

Who is the unnamed buyer?

The U.S. Mint has not revealed the identity of the buyer who commissioned the design, but it's clear that the buyer is willing to invest in a high-quality design that reflects the country's rich history and heritage.

The 2026 Declaration of Independence Coin is expected to be a highly soght-after collectible, and Polentz's design is sure to be a hit with coin collectors and history enthusiasts alike.