The United States Mint is inviting artists from throughout the United States to apply for participation in its Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) to help enrich and invigorate the design of coins and medals.

The new invitations seek up to six associate designers who will join the current AIP designers under contract with the program. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis beginning September 1, 2009. There will be three deadlines (November 9, 2009; March 8, 2010; and July 6, 2010), after which the artists who have applied will be evaluated for selection to the AIP. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible prior to the deadline for which they wish to be considered.

"We are very excited about this unique program and its latest call to tap into the best artistic talent in the country," said United States Mint Director Ed Moy. "This is a tremendous opportunity for artists representing all types of backgrounds to inspire and educate the entire Nation."

The United States Mint encourages applications from artists representing diverse backgrounds and a variety of interests reflecting those of the American people. Applicants may apply online by submitting five to 10 works from their portfolios, a resume and a statement of intent. They will also complete a standard application coin design exercise. Applicants must be professional artists who are U.S. citizens. Those who wish to apply are invited to visit our website, where they will find program details, eligibility requirements, artistic criteria and detailed application guidelines. Submissions will be evaluated on several factors, including drawing ability, compositional skills and the level to which the design demonstrates research of the subject matter.

Artists awarded contracts to participate in the program will be paid established fees for their work, and those whose designs are selected for coins and medals will be named as designer in historical documents, Certificates of Authenticity and promotional materials.

In the past, AIP artists have submitted successful designs for high-profile coins, such as commemorative quarter-dollar coins, American Eagle Platinum Coins, Presidential $1 Coins, First Spouse Gold Coins, 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial One-Cent Coins and commemorative coins.

There are two levels of artists who may participate in the AIP -- master designers and associate designers. Master designers are those who have proven themselves as valuable AIP artists for at least two years as an associate designer. Associate designers are professional artists who are new to the program. All AIP artists must attend an annual orientation/designer symposium.

Master designers are awarded contracts that pay $2,500 per task order, while associate designers are awarded contracts that pay $2,000 per task order. All contracts provide for an additional $5,000 for each design selected for a coin or medal.

The United States Mint, created by Congress in 1792, is the Nation's sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage. Its primary mission is to produce an adequate volume of circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The United States Mint also produces proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; and silver, gold and platinum bullion coins.