The Call for Artists was officially launched last Friday, August 28^th, and we are very proud of our brand new website which launched at this time as well. The Call for Artists invites artists from all over the country to apply for a paid position as an Associate Designer in the successful Artistic Infusion Program (AIP). Artists in the AIP program have the opportunity to take part in American history through the contribution of designs for coins that will be enjoyed by all Americans. In the past, AIP artists have submitted successful designs for coins released through the 50 State Quarters^® Program and the Presidential $1 Coin Program. This year artists can apply online! The program will run year-long with three cut-off dates for applicant review. The first cut-off date is November 9^th, 2009.Here is a short description of the program which can be used to communicate information about the Call for Artists with your members:

The United States Mint invites artists to be a part of American history through coin design. The Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) provides gifted artists the opportunity to contribute creative and beautiful designs for coins that will be enjoyed by all Americans. AIP artists have submitted successful designs for coins released through the 50 State Quarters^® Program and the Presidential $1 Coin Program.  Honorariums are $2,000 for each design submission and $5,000 for each selected design. Visit www.usmint.gov/artists to apply.