Prohibition on the Exportation, Melting, or Treatment of 5-Cent and One-Cent Coins

To protect the coinage of the United States, this interim rule prohibits the exportation, melting, and treatment of 5-cent and one- cent coins. This interim rule is issued pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 5111(d), which authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to prohibit or limit the exportation, melting, or treatment of United States coins when the Secretary decides the prohibition or limitation is necessary to protect the coinage of the United States. This interim rule is effective until April 14, 2007. The public is invited to comment until January 14, 2007. Thereafter, but prior to April 14, 2007, the Department of the Treasury will reevaluate the need for the rule in light of the public comments, and other relevant factors. Upon consideration of the public comments and other relevant factors, the Department of the Treasury may issue a final rule extending or modifying the provisions of this interim rule, or may allow the interim rule to expire without extension.

Agency Contact: Kristie Bowers, Attorney-Advisor, United States Mint at (202) 354-7631 (not a toll-free call).