A coin honoring legendary Pittsburgh Pirate Roberto Clemente is a step closer to reality.
The United States House passed and sent to the Senate Wednesday night a measure to authorize production of gold and silver coins bearing the Pirates great's likeness.
“He was the best of us and we will always have a special place for him in our hearts and the hearts of Pirates fans and so many across our country,” said Local Rep.
Chris Deluzio on the House floor.
Deluzio is a so-sponsor and author of the bill.
“Clemente’s record as a humanitarian and activist remains an inspiration to millions across the world,” added Deluzio. “We can honor his legacy by passing this bill.”
Proceeds from coin surcharges would go the Roberto Clemente Foundation. For example, buyers would pay $35 for a $5 coin, 10 for a $1 coin, and 5 for a half-dollar coin.
The idea for the Clemente coin was proposed earlier this year by a lawmaker out of New York City.
U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat is the first Dominican American to serve in Congress. He introduced Roberto Clemente Commemorative Coin Act in January
Clemente played 18 seasons for the Pirates between 1955 and 1972, recording exactly 3,000 hits.
He died on New Year's Eve 1972 in a plane crash as he was on a humanitarian mission to Nicaragua. He was 38 years old.
Roberto Clemente Day is celebrated in the MLB every September 15.
Players of Latin decent, those that have won the Roberto Clemente Award and the Pittsburgh Pirates wear #21 on the day.
Some have called for #21 to be retired across the league, just like Jackie Robinson’s #42.