Letter to the President and Vice  President that does not include changing the law.

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Subject:
Time for a Change in our Change
 
To:
President George Bush
Vice President Richard Cheney
 
Date:
 
Mr. President - Mr. Vice President,
 
Director of the Mint, Henrietta Fore has recently forwarded a request for the approval of 
new designs of United States coinage to the Secretary of the Treasury, Paul O'Neill. Mr.
O'Neill has publicly responded - "In the spirit of how things ought to be done in this
country, it's worthwhile to pay attention to people who have a view about these things," "I
can't imagine my telling people we're not interested in their opinions. I don't expect to
exercise my statutory authority without consulting with the appropriate people." He has further stated that he intends to discuss this matter with the President and Congress. Now Mr. O'neill is no longer the Secretary, but I have little doubt that his successor will do the same.
 
Well Mr. President, you and Congress are obviously the appropriate people. But then, so are
the citizens of this great nation. And since I am privileged to be one of those citizens, I
felt it my duty to voice my opinion as well.  It is my sincere hope that you will give your
support and approval to this request for a change in the design of United States coinage.
 
Mr. President, we have been stuck with the same design on our 1 cent coin for almost 100
years - our 5 cent coin for almost 65 years ( and if the folks in Virginia have their way -
it will be forever ) - our 10 cent coin for 56 years and our half dollar for 38 years.
Luckily the US Mint has changed our quarter & dollar coins. But it is beyond time to change
the others. In the words of Senator Phil Gramm - US coin designs "may be improved to
signify the distinction and greatness of our Republic."
 
Throughout our nations history our coinage designs have changed - repeatedly. This has kept
an interest in our coins worldwide and prevented stagnation in that interest. Our coins are
a way for the United States to make a statement. To present a piece of our history, our
culture, our very way of life; not only to our own citizens - but to the citizens of the
world.
 
And as George Washington himself said - "I am certain it will be more agreeable to the
citizens of the United States to see the head of Liberty on their coin, than the head of
presidents."
 
It is time for a Change in our Change !

Sincerely,