Edge lettering was mandated by Congress. But the equipment didn't exist to do that lettering, so engineers here and in Washington developed the machines. In less than a year.
Tells a story about legend about Peter the Eagle, a real eagle that used to live around the Mint. The actual bird. Stuffed. He's been moved to a new area next week in the mezzanine. Artists say prayers in front of the eagle.
Not gold, but an alloy coats the coin to give it its shiny golden color.
Same size as Sacajawea dollar, so it can used in the same vending machines.
All the buzz and enthusiasm ... more than for the state quarters program. "You're going to see it in people's pockets. This program is going to put this coin in people's pockets. I'm going to make that prediction."
Companion coins -- $10 commemoratives -- will bear the image of the spouse who was married to have president at the time that he served. If no spouse, the coin will reproduce the front of a coin from that era.
He's 63, but he's not talking retirement. "Traditionally, sculptors and engravers stay here into their 80s. ... I enjoy working with young artists. I enjoy working with creative people. I enjoy bringing new people into the genre."
One more thing: Bronze medal just like the companion coin, without the text.
Inquirer reporter Mike Jensen is the college basketball columnist for the Inquirer. Each year, he gives a special insight into the tournament.
Inquirer reporter Jeff McLane is the beat writer for Temple. He will pick the tournament.
Inquirer reporter Tom Fitzgerald will blog about Hillary Clinton's Pa. visits March 10 &11.
Inquirer reporter Larry Eichel will post updates on Bill Clinton's March 7 visit to Media.
Inquirer reporter Tim Panaccio will write about National Hockey League trade talk. 
Inquirer reporter David Aldridge will live-blog the week before the NBA's trade deadline. 
Peter Mucha began this blog, before moving on to other writing duties.
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