Congressman Aderholt Helps Strike Benjamin Franklin Commemorative Coin

December 19, 2005

CONGRESSMAN ADERHOLT HELPS STRIKE BENJAMIN FRANKLIN COMMEMORATIVE COIN

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. -- On December 19, 2005, Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) struck one of the first of two commemorative silver dollars to mark the 300th anniversary of the birth of Benjamin Franklin. The ceremonial striking took place at the United States Mint at Philadelphia. Congressman Aderholt cosponsored the Benjamin Franklin Commemorative Coin Act (Public Law No: 108-464), requiring the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of both the early and later achievements of Benjamin Franklin. The legislation became public law on November 21, 2004.

"The wisdom of Benjamin Franklin brought us many of the conveniences that we enjoy today. His creativity, wit, and intellect provided for some of the most significant contributions to date," said Congressman Aderholt. "As a Founding Father of our United States, Benjamin Franklin made a significant contribution to the Declaration of Independence, later signing the document. He was a great statesman, inventor, and leader. He deserves this honor. I was pleased to be a cosponsor of the legislation and also to strike one of the first commemorative coins in his hometown of Philadelphia. I have been an admirer of Benjamin Franklin since my childhood; therefore, to be part of this event is very exciting."

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/al04_aderholt/PR051219.html