PINE RIDGE, S.D. (AP) - The Oglala Sioux Tribe in South Dakota will soon have its own set of privately minted commemorative coins with designs honoring Native American heritage and culture.

The California-based Native American Mint held a contest to design a $1 coin, as well as five other coins of smaller denominations. They aren't legal tender and can't be used as money, and will be offered in uncirculated condition.

The organization Serving the Lakota organized the design contest. Spokesman Garry Bishop tells the Rapid City Journal the coins will be minted in Germany and mostly sold to collectors. He says there's a strong demand in Europe for Native American products.

The dollar coins should be available in about six months. The tribe will not see any royalties until after 25,000 coins are sold.

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