On April 8, 2025, the Detroit Historical Museum welcomed visitors for a special event to celebrate the release of the Michigan Innovation Dollar. The morning started with a short ceremony at 10:30 a.m., followed by a coin exchange where guests could trade one dollar in cash for the brand new coin.
The Honorable Steve Bieda, Michigan’s official liaison to the U.S. Mint, led the event. He is a long-time supporter of the coin collecting community and is a member of the American Numismatic Association, the Michigan State Numismatic Society, the Polish American Numismatic Society, and several other coin clubs. In April 2022, Governor Gretchen Whitmer appointed Mr. Bieda as the official liaison between the State of Michigan and the U.S. Mint to help select the theme and design for the Michigan Innovation Dollar.
The event was presented with support from the MotorCities National Heritage Area and the Michigan History Foundation. Many special guests attended, including Mr. Thomas J. Uram, the current President of the American Numismatic Association from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Mr. David G. Heinrich, a Governor of the American Numismatic Association from Cincinnati, Ohio, also joined the celebration. Kathy Freeland, President of the Michigan State Numismatic Society, was present as well.
In addition to national and state leaders, many Michigan coin club officials and members took part in the day’s festivities. Members of the Polish American Numismatic Society helped out with several volunteer roles during the ceremony. The Polish American Congress of Michigan Division was represented by President Jolanta Halaczkiewicz and other officials. Mr. Richard Yandora represented Post 169 of the Polish Legion of American Veterans in Michigan.
Staff and leaders from the Detroit Historical Museum welcomed guests and supported the event from start to finish. Coin collectors and curious visitors from across the area came to enjoy the moment and exchange their cash for the newly released Michigan Innovation Dollar.
The event was a huge success, with a great turnout and lots of media coverage. Guests were proud to be part of this special day and excited to bring home a piece of Michigan’s story in the form of a shiny new dollar coin.
Michigan Innovation Dollar Event Video
The 2025 American Innovation $1 Coin honoring Michigan’s contributions to the auto industry is available for purchase directly from the U.S. Mint. This coin features a 1930s-era assembly line with auto workers lowering an automobile cab into place, symbolizing Michigan’s pivotal role in automotive innovation.
To acquire this commemorative coin, visit the U.S. Mint’s product page:
The coin is offered in various packaging options, including rolls and bags, to suit different collecting preferences. Please note that these coins are not released into general circulation and are available exclusively through the U.S. Mint’s official channels.
Photography by DET3D
Video by Crystal Creek Media