“Freedom of Information” isn’t just a phrase, it’s a philosophy – the idea that government is open to the public and transparent to all. It’s an idea that traces back to America’s earliest days as a fledgling nation, and when James Madison, known as the “Father of the Constitution,” advocated for an open government. That is why Freedom of Information Day, proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1988, is celebrated each year on James Madison’s birthday – March 16.
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was enacted in 1966. It is the law under which countless people – including many numismatic researchers and journalists – have requested more information about a variety of topics, including government activities surrounding the production of coins and banknotes.
Filing a FOIA request may be relatively simple in task but sometimes is a long process, depending on the nature of the request. In some cases, FOIA requests go unfulfilled for a variety of reasons, including the information being requested simply not having a tangible answer or disposition. However, the existence of FOIA and the concept of transparency in government and journalism (which is recognized as part of Sunshine Week, which occurs in the second week of March and often coincides with Freedom of Information Day) speaks directly to the type of accessible government of the people, by the people, for the people that America’s Founding Parents, including James Madison, stood for.
Madison is no stranger to United States coinage. In addition to appearing on a variety of $5,000 Gold Certificates, a United States Note, and many Federal Reserve Notes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Madison is prominently featured across the 1993 Bill of Rights commemorative coins, a 2007 Presidential Dollar, and the 2026 Constitution Semiquincentennial Quarter. A multitude of PCGS Registry Sets accommodate these pieces for inclusion, and any of these coins serve as fitting and relevant tributes to one of the leading historical figures who helped make “Freedom of Information” more than just a patriotic slogan, but truly a fundamental right for all Americans.