2026 Wisconsin Innovation Dollar Released by U.S. Mint

The U.S. Mint has launched the 2026 Wisconsin Innovation Dollar, marked with a unique “250” designation for the Liberty Bell. This coin’s reverse showcases the Cray-1, a supercomputer designed in Wisconsin and recognized as the first commercially successful supercomputer. It can be acquired in rolls and bags as part of the Mint’s American Innovation® Dollar Coin Series. Notably, this is the second of four designs planned for release this year.

The Cray-1, conceptualized by Seymour Cray and his team at Cray Research, was introduced in 1976. It held the title of the world’s fastest computer until 1982 and became famous for its distinctive C-shaped design, which minimized wiring and enhanced efficiency. Numerous units were sold, mainly for military, meteorological, and aerospace uses.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers noted that Seymour Cray represents the state remarkably well, stating, “His contributions have shaped various aspects of our modern world.” He expressed pride in recognizing the Cray-1 supercomputer as a testament to Wisconsin’s innovative spirit.

The coin comes in product options, including 25-coin rolls and 100-coin bags, struck at both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints.

Details of the Wisconsin Innovation Dollar Design

Chosen from a pool of six potential designs, the reverse illustrates a stylized aerial view of the Cray-1 supercomputer, cleverly hinting at the letter C, which stands for both the computer and its creator. The inscriptions read: United States of America, Wisconsin, and CRAY-1 Supercomputer.

This design was crafted by Paul Romano from the U.S. Mint’s Artistic Infusion Program, with the sculpture done by John P. McGraw. The obverse features the Statue of Liberty, designed by Justin Kunz and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill, a common theme across the series. It prominently displays “IN GOD WE TRUST” along with the denomination of $1.

On the surface, a private mark features stylized gears representing innovation, and for 2026, it incorporates the Liberty Bell inscribed with “250” to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Each coin edge bears the inscriptions E PLURIBUS UNUM, 2026, and a mint mark (P or D) indicating the facility of manufacture.

Pricing, Ordering, and Limits

The Wisconsin Innovation Dollars are priced at $61.00 for 25-coin rolls and $154.50 for 100-coin bags—this is a noticeable increase compared to the debut prices of the January release, which was $36.25 for rolls and $123.50 for bags. That release is currently unavailable.

Available through the U.S. Mint’s online store, product limits remain the same as prior issues: 8,400 rolls from Philadelphia, 7,350 from Denver, with additional limits on bags. Each household can order up to ten items per type.

A Continuing Legacy of American Innovation

The American Innovation $1 Coin Program started in 2018 with a coin commemorating the first U.S. patent signed by George Washington. Since then, the program has rolled out four new coins annually, each celebrating an innovation associated with a different state.

The upcoming 2026 American Innovation $1 coins will include:

• Iowa $1 coin recognizes Dr. Norman Borlaug and his groundbreaking agricultural advancements.
• Wisconsin $1 coin highlights a stylized view of the Cray-1 supercomputer.
• California $1 coin portrays a young Steve Jobs in Northern California.
• Minnesota $1 coin features a 1940s truck with an early refrigeration unit.

By 2032, the program aims to include coins honoring inventions from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the five U.S. territories. Additionally, the 2026 American Innovation Dollars will be available in Reverse Proof Sets this coming fall.