Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act introduced by Portman

U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH) recently unveiled bipartisan legislation that directs the Treasury Department to mint commemorative, legal tender coins in recognition of the bicentennial of Harriet Tubman’s birth on March 10.

“I’m honored to introduce this bipartisan legislation to commemorate Tubman’s life and legacy,” Sen. Portman said. “The sale of these commemorative coins will help support the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Harriet Tubman Home, two organizations committed to preserving and honoring the bravery, legacy and the history of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad movement.”

Sen. Portman on March 11 cosponsored the Harriet Tubman Bicentennial Commemorative Coin Act, H.R. 697, with bill sponsor U.S. Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and more than a dozen other cosponsors, including U.S. Rep. Jerry Moran (R-KS).

“Harriet Tubman selflessly and courageously dedicated her life to helping others escape from the bondage of slavery,” said Rep. Portman. “Tubman was a trailblazer, paving the way for civil and women’s rights leaders to follow in her stead.” 

If enacted, the legislation would direct the Treasury Secretary to mint and issue $5 gold coins, $1 silver coins, and half dollar clad coins all having Tubman’s image, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Portman’s office.

All surcharges received by the U.S. Treasury Department would be paid equally to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, and the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, N.Y., to help them fulfill their missions, the summary says.

The bill has been referred to the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee for consideration.