The American Eagle Design
The coins have featured the same iconic design from inception. The obverse features the beautiful Walking Liberty design by Adolph Weinman from the beloved 1916 half dollar series. Liberty is shown striding over the rough American landscape. She carries branches of laurel representing success and oak representing strength. She is swaddled in the U.S. Flag and is backlit by the rising sun.
The reverse is an original design for the series from the 12th Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, John M. Mercanti. A Heraldic Eagle is the central feature of the design. He is protected by a shield over his breast. He clutches arrows and an olive branch in his talons signifying our desire for Peace and our willingness to protect it.