The OFFICIAL release date of the new dollars was Feb 15th, 2007.  The U.S. Mints will be releasing 4 new presidential coins for circulation each year until 2016.  Because of the Mint minting procedure the edge lettering will be ether upright in relation to the obverse or upside down.  I believe collectors will favor the upright or right orientation. 

In order to collect all Presidential coins remember you will need all Business Strike P&D, Satin Strike P&D (see my other review for Satin issues) both in right side up and upside down lettering (some call this type 1 or 2), and the S Proof strike.   That's 9 coins per issue and does not include error coins.  Most will ether collect one coin per President or choose the satin strike P&D along with the Proof to complete their set.  What ever you choose the Mint has certainly given a lot of options. 

For those not aware the U.S. Mint also produces specially wrapped U.S. Mint rolls for collectors.  These rolls are NOT the same as rolls found at Banks.  The 1st Edition U.S. Mint wrapped $1 rolls appear to have a solid paper design; therefore, collectors cannot see the lettered edge of the design.  I predict the U.S. Mint will eventually make a Clear Edge Wrapped design.  Seek out the Oddball Price Guide for current pricing on these issues.

No edge lettering error -  We highly recommend only purchasing certified examples by reputable grading companies! 

Happy Hunting.   Troy Thoreson, President of Auc Pro, Inc. and Thoreson Numismatics.  eBay User ID:  aucpro.