Modern US Military

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United States

S$1 1990 W EISENHOWER CENTENNIAL

NGC MS 69

Eisenhower Centennial Dollar

Public Law 100 – 467 - 100th Congress - This Act may be cited as the "Dwight David Eisenhower Commemorative Coin Act of 1988". To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue one-dollar coins in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Dwight David Eisenhower. The design of the coin shall have the likeness of Dwight David Eisenhower on the obverse side of such coin; and have an illustration of the home of Dwight David Eisenhower located in the Gettysburg National Historic Site on the reverse side of such coin.

• The "Secretary" shall mint and issue one-dollar coins in commemoration of the one hundredth anniversary of
the birth of Dwight David Eisenhower.
• The Secretary shall issue not more than 4,000,000 coins and shall contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper.
• The silver coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities, except that not
more than one facility of the United States Mint may be used to strike each such quality
Approved October 3, 1988. (The Secretary may begin selling the coins on January 1, 1990. The
Secretary may not mint coins after December 31, 1990.)
Background

Only a single commemorative coin was issued for 1990, representing a lull in the multiple coins seen for past and future years. The 1990 Eisenhower Silver Dollar was issued to mark the centennial of the birth of Dwight D. Eisenhower on October 14, 1890. He is honored as both a five-star General and the 34th President of the United States.

Released on January 16, 1990, this coin was authorized to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the birth of Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Characteristics

The obverse design of the coin features profiles of Dwight D. Eisenhower as a Five-Star General and President.
The reverse of the coin features the Eisenhower Gettysburg National Historical Site.

Surcharges from the sale of the coins was used to reduce the public debt.

The 1990 Eisenhower Silver Dollar had a maximum authorized mintage of 4,000,000 coins across the available options.

The US Mint's final mintage for the coins was 1,144,461 proof coins and 241,669 uncirculated coins.

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United States

S$1 1990 P EISENHOWER CENTENNIAL

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

Eisenhower Centennial Dollar

Public Law 100 – 467 - 100th Congress - This Act may be cited as the "Dwight David Eisenhower Commemorative Coin Act of 1988". To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue one-dollar coins in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Dwight David Eisenhower. The design of the coin shall have the likeness of Dwight David Eisenhower on the obverse side of such coin; and have an illustration of the home of Dwight David Eisenhower located in the Gettysburg National Historic Site on the reverse side of such coin.

• The "Secretary" shall mint and issue one-dollar coins in commemoration of the one hundredth anniversary of
the birth of Dwight David Eisenhower.
• The Secretary shall issue not more than 4,000,000 coins and shall contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper.
• The silver coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities, except that not
more than one facility of the United States Mint may be used to strike each such quality.

Approved October 3, 1988. (The Secretary may begin selling the coins on January 1, 1990. The
Secretary may not mint coins after December 31, 1990.)

Background

Only a single commemorative coin was issued for 1990, representing a lull in the multiple coins seen for past and future years. The 1990 Eisenhower Silver Dollar was issued to mark the centennial of the birth of Dwight D. Eisenhower on October 14, 1890. He is honored as both a five-star General and the 34th President of the United States.

Released on January 16, 1990, this coin was authorized to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the birth of Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Characteristics

The obverse design of the coin features profiles of Dwight D. Eisenhower as a Five-Star General and President.
The reverse of the coin features the Eisenhower Gettysburg National Historical Site.

Surcharges from the sale of the coins was used to reduce the public debt.

The 1990 Eisenhower Silver Dollar had a maximum authorized mintage of 4,000,000 coins across the available options.

The US Mint's final mintage for the coins was 1,144,461 proof coins and 241,669 uncirculated coins.

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United States

S$1 1991 P KOREAN WAR

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

Korean War Memorial Dollar

Public Law 101-495 101st Congress - This Act may be cited as the "Korean War Veterans Memorial
Thirty-Eighth Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act". To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint a Silver
Dollar Coin in commemoration of the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the Korean War and in honor of
those who served. The design of the coins minted in accordance with this section shall be symbolic of the
Korean War Veterans' heroic service.
• The Congress finds that:
 On June 25,1950, the Republic of Korea was invaded by the North Korean Army,
 United States forces in a United Nations action defended South Korea and repelled the attackers,
 further aggression by the Chinese Communists was also repelled,
 an armistice was signed on July 27,1953,
 American combat deaths totaled 33,629, and more than 8,000 remains are still unaccounted for,
 an additional several thousand nonbattle deaths occurred on or around the Korean
peninsula,
 103,284 Americans were wounded, with many disabled and handicapped,
 this war, waged under the United Nations aegis, halted communist aggression in Northeast Asia,
preserved the human rights of 40 million people, and restored the territorial integrity of the Republic
of Korea,
 the desire to memorialize American gratitude to the courageous men and women who served has
led to the Korean War Veterans Memorial authorization,
 this memorial must be built by private donations, and
 the moneys must be raised by the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the war.
• Sense of the Congress. It is the sense of the Congress:
 that the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the Korean War should not go unrecognized,
 that the United States should recognize this anniversary and the veterans of the Korean War by
minting and issuing a silver dollar coin; and
 that issuance of this coin will enable the Korean War Veterans Memorial to be built in the Nation's
capital on schedule, with all donations to be deposited in the United States Treasury Memorial
Fund.
• The Secretary shall mint and issue not more than 1,000,000 One-Dollar Silver Coins to commemorate
the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the Korean War and shall be composed of 90 percent silver
and 10 percent copper.
• The silver coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities, except that
not more than one facility of the United States Mint may be used to strike each such quality
Approved October 31, 1990 (The Secretary may issue the coins minted under this Act beginning on
January 1,1991. Coins may not be minted under this Act after December 31,1991.)

Background

Released on May 6, 1991, this silver dollar commemorated the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the Korean War and in honor of those who served.

Characteristics

The obverse design of the coin features a military figure charging up a hill. There are naval ships in the foreground, an F-86 aircraft flying overhead, and eight stars.
The reverse of the coin features a design of a map of Korea divided at the 38th Parallel and a bust of the American bald eagle.

Recipient Organization: Korean War Veterans Memorial Fund

Surcharges collected from coin sales were to be deposited into the Korean War Veterans Memorial Fund and be used to:
• Establish and erect the Korean War Veterans Memorial in the Nation's capital to honor those who served.
• Provide maintenance and perpetual care for the memorial and to establish interpretive centers and
disseminate information.

Any excess funds were to be donated to the National Park Service for maintenance of memorials under its jurisdiction and authorized by Congress during the 20th century relating to the commemoration of military conflicts in which the United States was involved.

President George H. W. Bush conducted the groundbreaking for the Memorial on June 14, 1992, Flag Day. The companies and organizations involved in the construction are listed on the memorial as: the Faith Construction company, the R. J. Crowley company, the Cold Spring Granite Company, the Tallix Art Foundry and the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.... The memorial was dedicated on July 27, 1995, the 42nd anniversary of the armistice that ended the war, by President Bill Clinton and Kim Young Sam, President of the Republic of Korea, to the men and women who served during the conflict. Management of the memorial was turned over to the National Park Service, under its National Mall and Memorial Parks group. As with all National Park Service historic areas, the memorial was administratively listed on the National Register of Historic Places on the day of its dedication.

Troop statistics

Engraved on granite blocks near the water pool at the east end of the monument are the casualty statistics for the soldiers who fought in the war.

• Dead — United States: 54,246,[6] United Nations: 628,833
• Wounded — United States: 103,284, United Nations: 1,064,453.
• Captured — United States: 7,140, United Nations: 92,970.
• Missing — United States: 8,177,[7] United Nations: 470,267.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1991 D KOREAN WAR

NGC MS 69

Korean War Memorial Dollar
Public Law 101-495 101st Congress - This Act may be cited as the "Korean War Veterans Memorial
Thirty-Eighth Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act". To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint a Silver
Dollar Coin in commemoration of the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the Korean War and in honor of
those who served. The design of the coins minted in accordance with this section shall be symbolic of the
Korean War Veterans' heroic service.
• The Congress finds that:
 On June 25,1950, the Republic of Korea was invaded by the North Korean Army,
 United States forces in a United Nations action defended South Korea and repelled the attackers,
 further aggression by the Chinese Communists was also repelled,
 an armistice was signed on July 27,1953,
 American combat deaths totaled 33,629, and more than 8,000 remains are still unaccounted for,
 an additional several thousand nonbattle deaths occurred on or around the Korean peninsula,
 103,284 Americans were wounded, with many disabled and handicapped,
 this war, waged under the United Nations aegis, halted communist aggression in Northeast Asia,
preserved the human rights of 40 million people, and restored the territorial integrity of the Republic
of Korea,
 the desire to memorialize American gratitude to the courageous men and women who served has led to
the Korean War Veterans Memorial authorization,
 this memorial must be built by private donations, and
 the moneys must be raised by the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the war.
• Sense of the Congress. It is the sense of the Congress:
 that the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the Korean War should not go unrecognized,
 that the United States should recognize this anniversary and the veterans of the Korean War by
minting and issuing a silver dollar coin; and
 that issuance of this coin will enable the Korean War Veterans Memorial to be built in the Nation's capital
on schedule, with all donations to be deposited in the United States Treasury Memorial Fund.
• The Secretary shall mint and issue not more than 1,000,000 One-Dollar Silver Coins to commemorate the
thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the Korean War and shall be composed of 90 percent silver and 10
percent copper.
• The silver coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities, except that not
more than one facility of the United States Mint may be used to strike each such quality.
Approved October 31, 1990 (The Secretary may issue the coins minted under this Act beginning on
January 1,1991. Coins may not be minted under this Act after December 31,1991.)

Background
Released on May 6, 1991, this silver dollar commemorated the thirty-eighth anniversary of the ending of the Korean War and in honor of those who served.

Characteristics
The obverse design of the coin features a military figure charging up a hill. There are naval ships in the foreground, an F-86 aircraft flying overhead, and eight stars.
The reverse of the coin features a design of a map of Korea divided at the 38th Parallel and a bust of the American bald eagle.

Recipient Organization: Korean War Veterans Memorial Fund
Surcharges collected from coin sales were to be deposited into the Korean War Veterans Memorial Fund and be used to:
• Establish and erect the Korean War Veterans Memorial in the Nation's capital to honor those who served.
• Provide maintenance and perpetual care for the memorial and to establish interpretive centers and
disseminate information.
Any excess funds were to be donated to the National Park Service for maintenance of memorials under its jurisdiction and authorized by Congress during the 20th century relating to the commemoration of military conflicts in which the United States was involved.

President George H. W. Bush conducted the groundbreaking for the Memorial on June 14, 1992, Flag Day. The companies and organizations involved in the construction are listed on the memorial as: the Faith Construction company, the R. J. Crowley company, the Cold Spring Granite Company, the Tallix Art Foundry and the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.... The memorial was dedicated on July 27, 1995, the 42nd anniversary of the armistice that ended the war, by President Bill Clinton and Kim Young Sam, President of the Republic of Korea, to the men and women who served during the conflict. Management of the memorial was turned over to the National Park Service, under its National Mall and Memorial Parks group. As with all National Park Service historic areas, the memorial was administratively listed on the National Register of Historic Places on the day of its dedication.

Troop statistics

Engraved on granite blocks near the water pool at the east end of the monument are the casualty statistics for the soldiers who fought in the war.

• Dead — United States: 54,246,[6] United Nations: 628,833
• Wounded — United States: 103,284, United Nations: 1,064,453.
• Captured — United States: 7,140, United Nations: 92,970.
• Missing — United States: 8,177,[7] United Nations: 470,267.

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United States

S$1 1991 D USO ANNIVERSARY

NGC MS 69

USO (United Service Organizations) Dollar
Public Law 101-404 101st Congress - This Act may be cited as the "United Services Organization's 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act". To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the United Services Organization. The design of the coins shall be emblematic of the services provided by the USO to military service personnel and families.
• The Secretary shall mint and issue not more than 1,000,000 One Dollar silver coins, and shall be composed of 90
percent silver and 10 percent copper.
• The silver coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities, except that not more
than one facility of the United States Mint may be used to strike each such quality of the coins
Approved October 2, 1990.
(The Secretary may issue the coins minted under this Act during the 1-year period beginning at the end of the 6-month period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act)

Background
Released on June 8, 1991, this dollar commemorated the 50th anniversary of the United Services Organization (USO).

Characteristics
The obverse design of the coin features an image of the USO pennant and the words 50th Anniversary.
The reverse of the coin features a design of an eagle perched upon a globe with a USO banner in its beak and the USO's anniversary theme: "Fifty Years of Service to Service People" and 11 stars.

Recipient Organization: USO
Fifty percent of the surcharges collected from coin sales were to be distributed to the USO to be used to fund programs including airport centers, fleet centers, family and community centers, and celebrity entertainment. The remaining fifty percent of the proceeds from the coin sale surcharges were to be returned to the Federal Treasury for the purposes of reducing the national debt

The United Service Organizations Inc. (USO Show) is a nonprofit organization that provides programs, services and live entertainment to United States troops and their families. Since 1941, it has worked in partnership with the Department of Defense (DOD), relying heavily on private contributions and on funds, goods, and services from various corporate and individual donors. Although congressionally chartered, it is not a government agency. The USO operates 160 centers worldwide.

During World War II, the USO became the G.I.'s "home away from home" and began a tradition of entertaining the troops that continues today. Involvement in the USO was one of the many ways in which the nation had come together to support the war effort, with nearly 1.5 million Americans having volunteered their services in some way. After it was disbanded in 1947, it was revived in 1950 for the Korean War, after which it also provided peacetime services. During the Vietnam War, USOs were sometimes located in combat zones.

The organization became particularly famous for its live performances called Camp Shows, through which the entertainment industry helped boost the morale of its servicemen and women. Hollywood in general was eager to show its patriotism, and many famous celebrities joined the ranks of USO entertainers. They entertained in military bases at home and overseas, sometimes placing their own lives in danger, by traveling or performing under hazardous conditions.

Mission and goals

The USO was founded in 1941 in response to a request from President Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide morale and recreation services to U.S. uniformed military personnel. Roosevelt was elected as its honorary chairman. This request brought together six civilian organizations: the Salvation Army, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), National Catholic Community Service, National Travelers Aid Association and the National Jewish Welfare Board. They were brought together under one umbrella to support U.S. troops. Roosevelt said he wanted "these private organizations to handle the on-leave recreation of the men in the armed forces." According to historian Emily Yellin, "The government was to build the buildings and the USO was to raise private funds to carry out its main mission: boosting the morale of the military."

USO promotional literature stated its goals:

"The story of USO camp shows belongs to the American people, for it was their contribution that made it possible. It is an important part in the life of your sons, your brothers, your husbands, and your sweethearts."

Honoring Bob Hope

In 1996, the U.S. Congress honored Bob Hope by declaring him the "first and only honorary veteran of the U.S. armed forces." According to Hope biographer William Faith, his reputation has become ingrained in the "American consciousness" because he had flown millions of miles to entertain G.I.s during both wartime and peace. His contribution to the USO began in 1941 and ended with Operation Desert Shield in 1991, spending 48 Christmases overseas with American service personnel. He was always treated as "an asset to the U.S. Government with his willingness to entertain whenever they needed him." After WWII was declared over, the USO had sent out an "impassioned bulletin" asking entertainers not to abandon the GIs now that the war was over. Hope was among the first to say yes. The Military Order of the Purple Heart notes that "his contributions to the USO are well known: they are legend."

His final Christmas show was during Operation Desert Shield in 1990. The show was not easy, notes Faith. "There were so many restrictions. Hope's jokes were monitored by the State Department to avoid offending the Saudis... and the media was restricted from covering the shows... Because in Saudi Arabia national custom prescribes that women must be veiled in public, Ann Jillian, Marie Osmond, and the Pointer Sisters were left off Hope's Christmas Eve show."

In 2009, Stephen Colbert performing his last episode of weeklong taping in Iraq for his The Colbert Report show, carried a golf club on stage and dedicated it to Bob Hope's service for the USO.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1991 S USO ANNIVERSARY

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

USO (United Service Organizations) Dollar
Public Law 101-404 101st Congress - This Act may be cited as the "United Services Organization's 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act". To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the United Services Organization. The design of the coins shall be emblematic of the services provided by the USO to military service personnel and families.
• The Secretary shall mint and issue not more than 1,000,000 One Dollar silver coins, and shall be composed of 90
percent silver and 10 percent copper.
• The silver coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities, except that not more
than one facility of the United States Mint may be used to strike each such quality of the coins
Approved October 2, 1990.
(The Secretary may issue the coins minted under this Act during the 1-year period beginning at the end of the 6-month period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act)

Background
Released on June 8, 1991, this dollar commemorated the 50th anniversary of the United Services Organization (USO).

Characteristics
The obverse design of the coin features an image of the USO pennant and the words 50th Anniversary.
The reverse of the coin features a design of an eagle perched upon a globe with a USO banner in its beak and the USO's anniversary theme: "Fifty Years of Service to Service People" and 11 stars.

Recipient Organization: USO
Fifty percent of the surcharges collected from coin sales were to be distributed to the USO to be used to fund programs including airport centers, fleet centers, family and community centers, and celebrity entertainment. The remaining fifty percent of the proceeds from the coin sale surcharges were to be returned to the Federal Treasury for the purposes of reducing the national debt

The United Service Organizations Inc. (USO Show) is a nonprofit organization that provides programs, services and live entertainment to United States troops and their families. Since 1941, it has worked in partnership with the Department of Defense (DOD), relying heavily on private contributions and on funds, goods, and services from various corporate and individual donors. Although congressionally chartered, it is not a government agency. The USO operates 160 centers worldwide.

During World War II, the USO became the G.I.'s "home away from home" and began a tradition of entertaining the troops that continues today. Involvement in the USO was one of the many ways in which the nation had come together to support the war effort, with nearly 1.5 million Americans having volunteered their services in some way. After it was disbanded in 1947, it was revived in 1950 for the Korean War, after which it also provided peacetime services. During the Vietnam War, USOs were sometimes located in combat zones.

The organization became particularly famous for its live performances called Camp Shows, through which the entertainment industry helped boost the morale of its servicemen and women. Hollywood in general was eager to show its patriotism, and many famous celebrities joined the ranks of USO entertainers. They entertained in military bases at home and overseas, sometimes placing their own lives in danger, by traveling or performing under hazardous conditions.

Mission and goals

The USO was founded in 1941 in response to a request from President Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide morale and recreation services to U.S. uniformed military personnel. Roosevelt was elected as its honorary chairman. This request brought together six civilian organizations: the Salvation Army, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), National Catholic Community Service, National Travelers Aid Association and the National Jewish Welfare Board. They were brought together under one umbrella to support U.S. troops. Roosevelt said he wanted "these private organizations to handle the on-leave recreation of the men in the armed forces." According to historian Emily Yellin, "The government was to build the buildings and the USO was to raise private funds to carry out its main mission: boosting the morale of the military."

USO promotional literature stated its goals:

"The story of USO camp shows belongs to the American people, for it was their contribution that made it possible. It is an important part in the life of your sons, your brothers, your husbands, and your sweethearts."

Honoring Bob Hope

In 1996, the U.S. Congress honored Bob Hope by declaring him the "first and only honorary veteran of the U.S. armed forces." According to Hope biographer William Faith, his reputation has become ingrained in the "American consciousness" because he had flown millions of miles to entertain G.I.s during both wartime and peace. His contribution to the USO began in 1941 and ended with Operation Desert Shield in 1991, spending 48 Christmases overseas with American service personnel. He was always treated as "an asset to the U.S. Government with his willingness to entertain whenever they needed him." After WWII was declared over, the USO had sent out an "impassioned bulletin" asking entertainers not to abandon the GIs now that the war was over. Hope was among the first to say yes. The Military Order of the Purple Heart notes that "his contributions to the USO are well known: they are legend."

His final Christmas show was during Operation Desert Shield in 1990. The show was not easy, notes Faith. "There were so many restrictions. Hope's jokes were monitored by the State Department to avoid offending the Saudis... and the media was restricted from covering the shows... Because in Saudi Arabia national custom prescribes that women must be veiled in public, Ann Jillian, Marie Osmond, and the Pointer Sisters were left off Hope's Christmas Eve show."

In 2009, Stephen Colbert performing his last episode of weeklong taping in Iraq for his The Colbert Report show, carried a golf club on stage and dedicated it to Bob Hope's service for the USO.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1991-1995 W World War II Anniversary

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

(1991-1995) World War II 50th Anniversary Coins
Public Law 102-414 102d Congress - This Act may be cited as the "World War II 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coins Act". To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the United States' involvement in World War II. The design of the coins shall be symbolic of the participation of the United States in World War II. In addition, the design of the gold coin shall be emblematic of the Allied victory in World War II, and the silver coin shall be emblematic of the Battle of Normandy.
• Denominations. —the secretary shall mint and issue the following coins:
 Five Dollar Gold Coins
♦ Not more than 300,000 Five Dollar Gold coins and be composed of 90 percent gold and 10 percent alloy
 One Dollar Silver Coins
♦ Not more than 1,000,000 One Dollar Silver coins and shall contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper
 Half dollar Clad Coins
♦ Not more than 2,000,000 Half Dollar Clad coins and shall contain an alloy of 75 percent copper and 25
percent nickel.
• The coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities and only 1 facility of the
United States Mint may be used to strike any particular combination of denomination and quality for the coins
minted under this Act.
Approved October 14, 1992
(The coins minted under this title may be issued beginning January 1993. Coins may not be minted under this title after December 31,1993.)

Background
Released on May 28, 1993, this coin was authorized in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the United States’ involvement in World War II.

Characteristics
The obverse design of the coin features an American serviceman with rifle raised celebrating victory.
The reverse of the coin features "V" for victory at the center of the coin, with the Morse code cryptic for the letter "V" superimposed over the victory symbol and laurel leaves.

Recipient Organization: The Battle of Normandy Foundation and the World War II Memorial
Surcharges from coin sales were primarily to be dedicated to:
• Endow and dedicate, on the 50th Anniversary of D-Day, a United States D-Day and Battle of Normandy
Memorial in Normandy, France and to encourage and support visits to the memorial by United States citizens,
and especially students.
• Expenses incurred in establishing a memorial on Federal land in the District of Columbia or its environs to
honor members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served in World War II and to commemorate
the participation of the United States in that war.

World War II (WWII or WW2), also known as the Second World War, was a global war. It is generally considered to have lasted from 1939 to 1945, although some conflicts in Asia that are commonly viewed as becoming part of the world war had been going on earlier than that. It involved the vast majority of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis. It was the most widespread war in history, with more than 100 million people, from more than 30 different countries, serving in military units. In a state of "total war", the major participants threw their entire economic, industrial, and scientific capabilities behind the war effort, erasing the distinction between civilian and military resources. Marked by mass deaths of civilians, including the Holocaust and the only use of nuclear weapons in warfare, it resulted in an estimated 50 million to 85 million fatalities. These made World War II the deadliest conflict in human history.

The Empire of Japan aimed to dominate East Asia and was already at war with the Republic of China in 1937, but the world war is generally said to have begun on 1 September 1939 with the invasion of Poland by Germany and subsequent declarations of war on Germany by France and the United Kingdom. From late 1939 to early 1941, in a series of campaigns and treaties, Germany formed the Axis alliance with Italy, conquering or subduing much of continental Europe. Following the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, Germany and the Soviet Union partitioned and annexed territories between themselves of their European neighbors, including Poland and the Baltic states. The United Kingdom and the other members of the British Commonwealth were the only major Allied forces continuing the fight against the Axis, with battles taking place in North Africa as well as the long-running Battle of the Atlantic. In June 1941, the European Axis launched an invasion of the Soviet Union, giving a start to the largest land theatre of war in history, which tied down the major part of the Axis' military forces for the rest of the war. In December 1941, Japan joined the Axis, attacked the United States and European territories in the Pacific Ocean, and quickly conquered much of the Western Pacific.

The Axis advance was stopped in 1942. Japan lost a critical battle at Midway, near Hawaii, and never regained its earlier momentum. Germany was defeated in North Africa and, decisively, at Stalingrad in Russia. In 1943, with a series of German defeats in Eastern Europe, the Allied invasion of Italy which brought about that nation's surrender and American victories in the Pacific, the Axis lost the initiative and undertook strategic retreat on all fronts. In 1944, the Western Allies invaded France, while the Soviet Union regained all of its territorial losses and invaded Germany and its allies. During 1944 and 1945 the United States defeated the Japanese Navy and captured key Western Pacific islands.

The war in Europe ended with an invasion of Germany by the Western Allies and the Soviet Union culminating in the capture of Berlin by Soviet and Polish troops and the subsequent German unconditional surrender on 8 May 1945. Following the Potsdam Declaration by the Allies on 26 July 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on 6 August and 9 August respectively. With an invasion of the Japanese archipelago (known as Operation Downfall) imminent, and the Soviet Union having declared war on Japan by invading Manchuria, Japan surrendered on 15 August 1945, ending the war in Asia and cementing the total victory of the Allies over the Axis.

World War II altered the political alignment and social structure of the world. The United Nations (UN) was established to foster international co-operation and prevent future conflicts. The great powers that were the victors of the war—the United States, the Soviet Union, China, the United Kingdom, and France—became the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. The Soviet Union and the United States emerged as rival superpowers, setting the stage for the Cold War, which lasted for the next 46 years. Meanwhile, the influence of European great powers started to decline, while the decolonization of Asia and Africa began. Most countries whose industries had been damaged moved towards economic recovery. Political integration, especially in Europe, emerged as an effort to stabilize postwar relations and cooperate more effectively in the Cold War.

View Coin

United States

50C 1991-1995 P World War II Anniversary

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

(1991-1995) World War II 50th Anniversary Coins
Public Law 102-414 102d Congress - This Act may be cited as the "World War II 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coins Act". To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the United States' involvement in World War II. The design of the coins shall be symbolic of the participation of the United States in World War II. In addition, the design of the gold coin shall be emblematic of the Allied victory in World War II, and the silver coin shall be emblematic of the Battle of Normandy.
• Denominations. —the secretary shall mint and issue the following coins:
 Five Dollar Gold Coins
♦ Not more than 300,000 Five Dollar Gold coins and be composed of 90 percent gold and 10 percent alloy
 One Dollar Silver Coins
♦ Not more than 1,000,000 One Dollar Silver coins and shall contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper
 Half dollar Clad Coins
♦ Not more than 2,000,000 Half Dollar Clad coins and shall contain an alloy of 75 percent copper and 25
percent nickel.
• The coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities and only 1 facility of the
United States Mint may be used to strike any particular combination of denomination and quality for the coins
minted under this Act.
Approved October 14, 1992
(The coins minted under this title may be issued beginning January 1993. Coins may not be minted under this title after December 31,1993.)

Background
Released on May 28, 1993, this coin was authorized in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the United States’ involvement in World War II.

Characteristics
The obverse design of the coin features an American serviceman with rifle raised celebrating victory.
The reverse of the coin features "V" for victory at the center of the coin, with the Morse code cryptic for the letter "V" superimposed over the victory symbol and laurel leaves.

Recipient Organization: The Battle of Normandy Foundation and the World War II Memorial
Surcharges from coin sales were primarily to be dedicated to:
• Endow and dedicate, on the 50th Anniversary of D-Day, a United States D-Day and Battle of Normandy
Memorial in Normandy, France and to encourage and support visits to the memorial by United States citizens,
and especially students.
• Expenses incurred in establishing a memorial on Federal land in the District of Columbia or its environs to
honor members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served in World War II and to commemorate
the participation of the United States in that war.

World War II (WWII or WW2), also known as the Second World War, was a global war. It is generally considered to have lasted from 1939 to 1945, although some conflicts in Asia that are commonly viewed as becoming part of the world war had been going on earlier than that. It involved the vast majority of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis. It was the most widespread war in history, with more than 100 million people, from more than 30 different countries, serving in military units. In a state of "total war", the major participants threw their entire economic, industrial, and scientific capabilities behind the war effort, erasing the distinction between civilian and military resources. Marked by mass deaths of civilians, including the Holocaust and the only use of nuclear weapons in warfare, it resulted in an estimated 50 million to 85 million fatalities. These made World War II the deadliest conflict in human history.

The Empire of Japan aimed to dominate East Asia and was already at war with the Republic of China in 1937, but the world war is generally said to have begun on 1 September 1939 with the invasion of Poland by Germany and subsequent declarations of war on Germany by France and the United Kingdom. From late 1939 to early 1941, in a series of campaigns and treaties, Germany formed the Axis alliance with Italy, conquering or subduing much of continental Europe. Following the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, Germany and the Soviet Union partitioned and annexed territories between themselves of their European neighbors, including Poland and the Baltic states. The United Kingdom and the other members of the British Commonwealth were the only major Allied forces continuing the fight against the Axis, with battles taking place in North Africa as well as the long-running Battle of the Atlantic. In June 1941, the European Axis launched an invasion of the Soviet Union, giving a start to the largest land theatre of war in history, which tied down the major part of the Axis' military forces for the rest of the war. In December 1941, Japan joined the Axis, attacked the United States and European territories in the Pacific Ocean, and quickly conquered much of the Western Pacific.

The Axis advance was stopped in 1942. Japan lost a critical battle at Midway, near Hawaii, and never regained its earlier momentum. Germany was defeated in North Africa and, decisively, at Stalingrad in Russia. In 1943, with a series of German defeats in Eastern Europe, the Allied invasion of Italy which brought about that nation's surrender and American victories in the Pacific, the Axis lost the initiative and undertook strategic retreat on all fronts. In 1944, the Western Allies invaded France, while the Soviet Union regained all of its territorial losses and invaded Germany and its allies. During 1944 and 1945 the United States defeated the Japanese Navy and captured key Western Pacific islands.

The war in Europe ended with an invasion of Germany by the Western Allies and the Soviet Union culminating in the capture of Berlin by Soviet and Polish troops and the subsequent German unconditional surrender on 8 May 1945. Following the Potsdam Declaration by the Allies on 26 July 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on 6 August and 9 August respectively. With an invasion of the Japanese archipelago (known as Operation Downfall) imminent, and the Soviet Union having declared war on Japan by invading Manchuria, Japan surrendered on 15 August 1945, ending the war in Asia and cementing the total victory of the Allies over the Axis.

World War II altered the political alignment and social structure of the world. The United Nations (UN) was established to foster international co-operation and prevent future conflicts. The great powers that were the victors of the war—the United States, the Soviet Union, China, the United Kingdom, and France—became the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. The Soviet Union and the United States emerged as rival superpowers, setting the stage for the Cold War, which lasted for the next 46 years. Meanwhile, the influence of European great powers started to decline, while the decolonization of Asia and Africa began. Most countries whose industries had been damaged moved towards economic recovery. Political integration, especially in Europe, emerged as an effort to stabilize postwar relations and cooperate more effectively in the Cold War.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1991-1995 D WORLD WAR II ANNIVERSARY

NGC MS 70

World War II (WWII or WW2), also known as the Second World War, was a global war. It is generally considered to have lasted from 1939 to 1945, although some conflicts in Asia that are commonly viewed as becoming part of the world war had been going on earlier than that. It involved the vast majority of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis. It was the most widespread war in history, with more than 100 million people, from more than 30 different countries, serving in military units. In a state of "total war", the major participants threw their entire economic, industrial, and scientific capabilities behind the war effort, erasing the distinction between civilian and military resources. Marked by mass deaths of civilians, including the Holocaust and the only use of nuclear weapons in warfare, it resulted in an estimated 50 million to 85 million fatalities. These made World War II the deadliest conflict in human history.

The Empire of Japan aimed to dominate East Asia and was already at war with the Republic of China in 1937, but the world war is generally said to have begun on 1 September 1939 with the invasion of Poland by Germany and subsequent declarations of war on Germany by France and the United Kingdom. From late 1939 to early 1941, in a series of campaigns and treaties, Germany formed the Axis alliance with Italy, conquering or subduing much of continental Europe. Following the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, Germany and the Soviet Union partitioned and annexed territories between themselves of their European neighbors, including Poland and the Baltic states. The United Kingdom and the other members of the British Commonwealth were the only major Allied forces continuing the fight against the Axis, with battles taking place in North Africa as well as the long-running Battle of the Atlantic. In June 1941, the European Axis launched an invasion of the Soviet Union, giving a start to the largest land theatre of war in history, which tied down the major part of the Axis' military forces for the rest of the war. In December 1941, Japan joined the Axis, attacked the United States and European territories in the Pacific Ocean, and quickly conquered much of the Western Pacific.

The Axis advance was stopped in 1942. Japan lost a critical battle at Midway, near Hawaii, and never regained its earlier momentum. Germany was defeated in North Africa and, decisively, at Stalingrad in Russia. In 1943, with a series of German defeats in Eastern Europe, the Allied invasion of Italy which brought about that nation's surrender and American victories in the Pacific, the Axis lost the initiative and undertook strategic retreat on all fronts. In 1944, the Western Allies invaded France, while the Soviet Union regained all of its territorial losses and invaded Germany and its allies. During 1944 and 1945 the United States defeated the Japanese Navy and captured key Western Pacific islands.

The war in Europe ended with an invasion of Germany by the Western Allies and the Soviet Union culminating in the capture of Berlin by Soviet and Polish troops and the subsequent German unconditional surrender on 8 May 1945. Following the Potsdam Declaration by the Allies on 26 July 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on 6 August and 9 August respectively. With an invasion of the Japanese archipelago (known as Operation Downfall) imminent, and the Soviet Union having declared war on Japan by invading Manchuria, Japan surrendered on 15 August 1945, ending the war in Asia and cementing the total victory of the Allies over the Axis.

World War II altered the political alignment and social structure of the world. The United Nations (UN) was established to foster international co-operation and prevent future conflicts. The great powers that were the victors of the war—the United States, the Soviet Union, China, the United Kingdom, and France—became the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. The Soviet Union and the United States emerged as rival superpowers, setting the stage for the Cold War, which lasted for the next 46 years. Meanwhile, the influence of European great powers started to decline, while the decolonization of Asia and Africa began. Most countries whose industries had been damaged moved towards economic recovery. Political integration, especially in Europe, emerged as an effort to stabilize postwar relations and cooperate more effectively in the Cold War.

View Coin

United States

50C 1991-1995 P World War II Anniversary

NGC MS 69

World War II (WWII or WW2), also known as the Second World War, was a global war. It is generally considered to have lasted from 1939 to 1945, although some conflicts in Asia that are commonly viewed as becoming part of the world war had been going on earlier than that. It involved the vast majority of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis. It was the most widespread war in history, with more than 100 million people, from more than 30 different countries, serving in military units. In a state of "total war", the major participants threw their entire economic, industrial, and scientific capabilities behind the war effort, erasing the distinction between civilian and military resources. Marked by mass deaths of civilians, including the Holocaust and the only use of nuclear weapons in warfare, it resulted in an estimated 50 million to 85 million fatalities. These made World War II the deadliest conflict in human history.

The Empire of Japan aimed to dominate East Asia and was already at war with the Republic of China in 1937, but the world war is generally said to have begun on 1 September 1939 with the invasion of Poland by Germany and subsequent declarations of war on Germany by France and the United Kingdom. From late 1939 to early 1941, in a series of campaigns and treaties, Germany formed the Axis alliance with Italy, conquering or subduing much of continental Europe. Following the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, Germany and the Soviet Union partitioned and annexed territories between themselves of their European neighbors, including Poland and the Baltic states. The United Kingdom and the other members of the British Commonwealth were the only major Allied forces continuing the fight against the Axis, with battles taking place in North Africa as well as the long-running Battle of the Atlantic. In June 1941, the European Axis launched an invasion of the Soviet Union, giving a start to the largest land theatre of war in history, which tied down the major part of the Axis' military forces for the rest of the war. In December 1941, Japan joined the Axis, attacked the United States and European territories in the Pacific Ocean, and quickly conquered much of the Western Pacific.

The Axis advance was stopped in 1942. Japan lost a critical battle at Midway, near Hawaii, and never regained its earlier momentum. Germany was defeated in North Africa and, decisively, at Stalingrad in Russia. In 1943, with a series of German defeats in Eastern Europe, the Allied invasion of Italy which brought about that nation's surrender and American victories in the Pacific, the Axis lost the initiative and undertook strategic retreat on all fronts. In 1944, the Western Allies invaded France, while the Soviet Union regained all of its territorial losses and invaded Germany and its allies. During 1944 and 1945 the United States defeated the Japanese Navy and captured key Western Pacific islands.

The war in Europe ended with an invasion of Germany by the Western Allies and the Soviet Union culminating in the capture of Berlin by Soviet and Polish troops and the subsequent German unconditional surrender on 8 May 1945. Following the Potsdam Declaration by the Allies on 26 July 1945, the United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on 6 August and 9 August respectively. With an invasion of the Japanese archipelago (known as Operation Downfall) imminent, and the Soviet Union having declared war on Japan by invading Manchuria, Japan surrendered on 15 August 1945, ending the war in Asia and cementing the total victory of the Allies over the Axis.

World War II altered the political alignment and social structure of the world. The United Nations (UN) was established to foster international co-operation and prevent future conflicts. The great powers that were the victors of the war—the United States, the Soviet Union, China, the United Kingdom, and France—became the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. The Soviet Union and the United States emerged as rival superpowers, setting the stage for the Cold War, which lasted for the next 46 years. Meanwhile, the influence of European great powers started to decline, while the decolonization of Asia and Africa began. Most countries whose industries had been damaged moved towards economic recovery. Political integration, especially in Europe, emerged as an effort to stabilize postwar relations and cooperate more effectively in the Cold War.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1994 P Prisoner of War Museum

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

The National Prisoner of War Museum is dedicated to the men and women of this country who suffered captivity so that others may remain free. Their story is one of sacrifice and courage; their legacy, the gift of liberty.

The museum was officially opened and dedicated on April 9, 1999. The concept of a museum to honor all prisoners of war in American History goes back to the legislation passed by Congress in 1970 that made Andersonville a unit of the National Park Service. The law that created the National Historic Site specified that the park is preserved to tell the Andersonville story, the story of all Civil War POW camps (north and south) and the story of all POWs in American History. In the 1980's the park staff developed a partnership with the American Ex-Prisoners of War that led to a small temporary POW museum on the park grounds.

A visit to the National P.O.W. Museum can be an emotional experience. The architecture of the building, works of art, displays, and video presentations all work together to tell the story of the prisoner of war experience.

The museum is not divided by wars. Exhibits include prisoners of war from all wars together in one setting. Prisoners of war have faced the same hardships since the American Revolution. The story being told is not that of a single war, but that of all prisoners of war.

Half of the funds to establish the museum came from donations. The majority of these funds came from the sale of the Prisoner of War Commemorative Coin.

One of the few civil things about the Civil War were its gentlemanly prisoner exchanges; POWs of each side would be swapped for the other. That ended when the North realized that it was restocking the South's dwindling supply of soldiers, and led to the creation of giant POW camps in the North and South.

The worst was at Andersonville, Georgia. It was little more than an open field, surrounded by 15-foot-high walls made of tree trunks. Nearly 30 percent of its 45,000 Union prisoners died in only 14 months.

The Andersonville prison eventually became a National Historic Site, and its infamy made it a natural spot for the National POW Museum, which opened in 1998.

Visitors enter through a dark room, and suddenly hear the wail of sirens. Crazy-swirling spotlights appear, revealing dozens of rifle muzzles poking out of the walls, directly at you. You've been captured!

Sad music plays softly throughout the galleries. Plate steel display cases convey an institutional starkness, and POWs don't have many possessions to exhibit anyway. We saw sandals made of straw, socks knitted from string, a suit made of tent canvas. Some prisoners from the War of 1812 had the time to make a fully-rigged sailing ship model out of beef, mutton, and pork bones -- but the general impression is that most American POWs have had little time for hobbies or access to meat.

The museum's most elaborate presentation is about Americans captured in the Vietnam War. Peering through a slot in a wall reveals a dark chamber containing the dummy of a grim, barefoot POW sitting on a thin straw mat, manacled to a concrete slab. The sound of sickly coughing fills the cell, along with harsh commands barked over a loudspeaker ("On your feet! No talking!"), and the droning monotone of a prisoner reading antiwar statements at a staged North Vietnamese press conference. Next to the cell stands a life-size bamboo "tiger cage" (built for the museum by the U.S. military).

More recent artifacts in the museum include the flight suit worn by a woman Army surgeon who was shot down during the Gulf War, and a display titled "The First 21st Century American POWs," whose six members included a single mom, a Filipino- and a Mexican-American, and two soldiers over 30. Diversity, yay!

View Coin

United States

S$1 1994 P Vietnam Veterans Memorial

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a national memorial in Washington, D.C. It honors U.S. service members of the U.S. armed forces who fought in the Vietnam War, service members who died in service in Vietnam/South East Asia, and those service members who were unaccounted for (Missing In Action) during the War.

Its construction and related issues have been the source of controversies, some of which have resulted in additions to the memorial complex. The memorial currently consists of three separate parts: the Three Soldiers statue, the Vietnam Women's Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, which is the best-known part of the memorial.

The main part of the memorial, which was completed in 1982, is in Constitution Gardens adjacent to the National Mall, just northeast of the Lincoln Memorial. The memorial is maintained by the U.S. National Park Service, and receives around 3 million visitors each year. The Memorial Wall was designed by American architect Maya Lin. The typesetting of the original 58,195 names on the wall was performed by Datalantic in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2007, it was ranked tenth on the "List of America's Favorite Architecture" by the American Institute of Architects.

Memorial Wall

The Memorial Wall, designed by Maya Lin, is made up of two gabbro walls 246 feet 9 inches (75 m) long.[3][4] The walls are sunk into the ground, with the earth behind them. At the highest tip (the apex where they meet), they are 10.1 feet (3 m) high, and they taper to a height of eight inches (20 cm) at their extremities. Stone for the wall came from Bangalore, Karnataka, India, and was deliberately chosen because of its reflective quality. Stone cutting and fabrication was done in Barre, Vermont. Stones were then shipped to Memphis, Tennessee where the names were etched. The etching was completed using a photoemulsion and sandblasting process. The negatives used in the process are in storage at the Smithsonian Institution. When a visitor looks upon the wall, his or her reflection can be seen simultaneously with the engraved names, which is meant to symbolically bring the past and present together. One wall points toward the Washington Monument, the other in the direction of the Lincoln Memorial, meeting at an angle of 125° 12'. Each wall has 72 panels, 70 listing names (numbered 1E through 70E and 70W through 1W) and 2 very small blank panels at the extremities. There is a pathway along the base of the Wall, where visitors may walk, read the names, make a pencil rubbing of a particular name, or pray.

One panel of 'The Wall', displaying some of the names of fallen U.S. service members from the Vietnam War.
Inscribed on the walls with the Optima typeface are the names of servicemen who were either confirmed to be KIA (Killed in Action) or remained classified as MIA (Missing in Action) when the walls were constructed in 1982. They are listed in chronological order, starting at the apex on panel 1E in 1959 (although it was later discovered that the first casualties were military advisers who were killed by artillery fire in 1957), moving day by day to the end of the eastern wall at panel 70E, which ends on May 25, 1968, starting again at panel 70W at the end of the western wall which completes the list for May 25, 1968, and returning to the apex at panel 1W in 1975. Symbolically, this is described as a "wound that is closed and healing." Information about rank, unit, and decorations are not given. The wall listed 58,191 names when it was completed in 1983; as of May 2011, there are 58,272 names, including 8 women. Approximately 1,200 of these are listed as missing (MIAs, POWs, and others), denoted with a cross; the confirmed dead are marked with a diamond. If the missing return alive, the cross is circumscribed by a circle (although this has never occurred as of March 2009); if their death is confirmed, a diamond is superimposed over the cross. According to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, "there is no definitive answer to exactly how many, but there could be as many as 38 names of personnel who survived, but through clerical errors, were added to the list of fatalities provided by the Department of Defense." Directories are located on nearby podiums so that visitors may locate specific names.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1994 P Women Veterans Memorial

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial is located at the Ceremonial Entrance to Arlington National Cemetery and honors all women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. New York architects Marion Weiss and Michael Manfredi, husband and wife, designed the memorial. Planning for the memorial began as early as 1985, with the groundbreaking occurring 10 years later on June 22, 1995. The Memorial was dedicated on October 18, 1997, and officially opened to the public on October 20, 1997.

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial serves as a gateway to Arlington National Cemetery. The Visitors Center is located here and is a resource for maps and guidebooks. The memorial has indoor exhibits that showcase the roles women have played in America's military history. There are film presentations, a 196-seat theater, and a Hall of Honor which provides recognition to women who died in service, were prisoners of war or were recipients of awards for service and bravery.

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial is located at the end of Memorial Drive directly across Memorial Bridge from the Lincoln Memorial. The memorial is easily accessible from the Arlington Cemetery Metro stop.

President Ronald Reagan signed legislation authorizing the Women's Memorial in Washington, D.C., into law on Nov. 6, 1986. The Memorial is at the historic grand entrance and hemicycle at the gateway to Arlington National Cemetery. It stands in lasting recognition of all women who have served, are serving and will serve in our nation's defense.

The Register

The individual stories of servicewomen past and present are contained in the Register which is appropriately located along the historic axis of the Mall. This historic line is visible outside the Memorial with grey cobblestones running East and West along Memorial Drive. Inside the Education Center, this historic axis is visible in polished black granite from behind the Great Niche through the Register Room.

Quotations

Quotations etched into an arch of glass tablets represents a collective journal of women's voices. The journal's pages are spread open on the upper terrace. Like a floating horizon above the space below, the women's voices are etched in glass. The tablets are inscribed with quotations by and about women who served--a story for everyone to read.

History

An estimated 6,000 witnessed the Memorial's groundbreaking ceremonies on June 22, 1995. Construction began in March 1996. The Memorial was dedicated on Oct. 18, 1997 by Vice President and Mrs. Al Gore; distinguished guests; retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Wilma L. Vaught and President of the WIMSA Memorial Foundation; and thousands of active-duty servicewomen, women veterans and their families and friends.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1994 W VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL

NGC MS 69

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a national memorial in Washington, D.C. It honors U.S. service members of the U.S. armed forces who fought in the Vietnam War, service members who died in service in Vietnam/South East Asia, and those service members who were unaccounted for (Missing In Action) during the War.

Its construction and related issues have been the source of controversies, some of which have resulted in additions to the memorial complex. The memorial currently consists of three separate parts: the Three Soldiers statue, the Vietnam Women's Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, which is the best-known part of the memorial.

The main part of the memorial, which was completed in 1982, is in Constitution Gardens adjacent to the National Mall, just northeast of the Lincoln Memorial. The memorial is maintained by the U.S. National Park Service, and receives around 3 million visitors each year. The Memorial Wall was designed by American architect Maya Lin. The typesetting of the original 58,195 names on the wall was performed by Datalantic in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2007, it was ranked tenth on the "List of America's Favorite Architecture" by the American Institute of Architects.

Memorial Wall

The Memorial Wall, designed by Maya Lin, is made up of two gabbro walls 246 feet 9 inches (75 m) long.[3][4] The walls are sunk into the ground, with the earth behind them. At the highest tip (the apex where they meet), they are 10.1 feet (3 m) high, and they taper to a height of eight inches (20 cm) at their extremities. Stone for the wall came from Bangalore, Karnataka, India, and was deliberately chosen because of its reflective quality. Stone cutting and fabrication was done in Barre, Vermont. Stones were then shipped to Memphis, Tennessee where the names were etched. The etching was completed using a photoemulsion and sandblasting process. The negatives used in the process are in storage at the Smithsonian Institution. When a visitor looks upon the wall, his or her reflection can be seen simultaneously with the engraved names, which is meant to symbolically bring the past and present together. One wall points toward the Washington Monument, the other in the direction of the Lincoln Memorial, meeting at an angle of 125° 12'. Each wall has 72 panels, 70 listing names (numbered 1E through 70E and 70W through 1W) and 2 very small blank panels at the extremities. There is a pathway along the base of the Wall, where visitors may walk, read the names, make a pencil rubbing of a particular name, or pray.

One panel of 'The Wall', displaying some of the names of fallen U.S. service members from the Vietnam War.
Inscribed on the walls with the Optima typeface are the names of servicemen who were either confirmed to be KIA (Killed in Action) or remained classified as MIA (Missing in Action) when the walls were constructed in 1982. They are listed in chronological order, starting at the apex on panel 1E in 1959 (although it was later discovered that the first casualties were military advisers who were killed by artillery fire in 1957), moving day by day to the end of the eastern wall at panel 70E, which ends on May 25, 1968, starting again at panel 70W at the end of the western wall which completes the list for May 25, 1968, and returning to the apex at panel 1W in 1975. Symbolically, this is described as a "wound that is closed and healing." Information about rank, unit, and decorations are not given. The wall listed 58,191 names when it was completed in 1983; as of May 2011, there are 58,272 names, including 8 women. Approximately 1,200 of these are listed as missing (MIAs, POWs, and others), denoted with a cross; the confirmed dead are marked with a diamond. If the missing return alive, the cross is circumscribed by a circle (although this has never occurred as of March 2009); if their death is confirmed, a diamond is superimposed over the cross. According to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, "there is no definitive answer to exactly how many, but there could be as many as 38 names of personnel who survived, but through clerical errors, were added to the list of fatalities provided by the Department of Defense." Directories are located on nearby podiums so that visitors may locate specific names.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1994 W WOMEN VETERANS MEMORIAL

NGC MS 69

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial is located at the Ceremonial Entrance to Arlington National Cemetery and honors all women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. New York architects Marion Weiss and Michael Manfredi, husband and wife, designed the memorial. Planning for the memorial began as early as 1985, with the groundbreaking occurring 10 years later on June 22, 1995. The Memorial was dedicated on October 18, 1997, and officially opened to the public on October 20, 1997.

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial serves as a gateway to Arlington National Cemetery. The Visitors Center is located here and is a resource for maps and guidebooks. The memorial has indoor exhibits that showcase the roles women have played in America's military history. There are film presentations, a 196-seat theater, and a Hall of Honor which provides recognition to women who died in service, were prisoners of war or were recipients of awards for service and bravery.

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial is located at the end of Memorial Drive directly across Memorial Bridge from the Lincoln Memorial. The memorial is easily accessible from the Arlington Cemetery Metro stop.

President Ronald Reagan signed legislation authorizing the Women's Memorial in Washington, D.C., into law on Nov. 6, 1986. The Memorial is at the historic grand entrance and hemicycle at the gateway to Arlington National Cemetery. It stands in lasting recognition of all women who have served, are serving and will serve in our nation's defense.

The Register

The individual stories of servicewomen past and present are contained in the Register which is appropriately located along the historic axis of the Mall. This historic line is visible outside the Memorial with grey cobblestones running East and West along Memorial Drive. Inside the Education Center, this historic axis is visible in polished black granite from behind the Great Niche through the Register Room.

Quotations

Quotations etched into an arch of glass tablets represents a collective journal of women's voices. The journal's pages are spread open on the upper terrace. Like a floating horizon above the space below, the women's voices are etched in glass. The tablets are inscribed with quotations by and about women who served--a story for everyone to read.

History

An estimated 6,000 witnessed the Memorial's groundbreaking ceremonies on June 22, 1995. Construction began in March 1996. The Memorial was dedicated on Oct. 18, 1997 by Vice President and Mrs. Al Gore; distinguished guests; retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Wilma L. Vaught and President of the WIMSA Memorial Foundation; and thousands of active-duty servicewomen, women veterans and their families and friends.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1994 W PRISONER OF WAR MUSEUM

NGC MS 69

The National Prisoner of War Museum is dedicated to the men and women of this country who suffered captivity so that others may remain free. Their story is one of sacrifice and courage; their legacy, the gift of liberty.

The museum was officially opened and dedicated on April 9, 1999. The concept of a museum to honor all prisoners of war in American History goes back to the legislation passed by Congress in 1970 that made Andersonville a unit of the National Park Service. The law that created the National Historic Site specified that the park is preserved to tell the Andersonville story, the story of all Civil War POW camps (north and south) and the story of all POWs in American History. In the 1980's the park staff developed a partnership with the American Ex-Prisoners of War that led to a small temporary POW museum on the park grounds.

A visit to the National P.O.W. Museum can be an emotional experience. The architecture of the building, works of art, displays, and video presentations all work together to tell the story of the prisoner of war experience.

The museum is not divided by wars. Exhibits include prisoners of war from all wars together in one setting. Prisoners of war have faced the same hardships since the American Revolution. The story being told is not that of a single war, but that of all prisoners of war.

Half of the funds to establish the museum came from donations. The majority of these funds came from the sale of the Prisoner of War Commemorative Coin.

One of the few civil things about the Civil War were its gentlemanly prisoner exchanges; POWs of each side would be swapped for the other. That ended when the North realized that it was restocking the South's dwindling supply of soldiers, and led to the creation of giant POW camps in the North and South.

The worst was at Andersonville, Georgia. It was little more than an open field, surrounded by 15-foot-high walls made of tree trunks. Nearly 30 percent of its 45,000 Union prisoners died in only 14 months.

The Andersonville prison eventually became a National Historic Site, and its infamy made it a natural spot for the National POW Museum, which opened in 1998.

Visitors enter through a dark room, and suddenly hear the wail of sirens. Crazy-swirling spotlights appear, revealing dozens of rifle muzzles poking out of the walls, directly at you. You've been captured!

Sad music plays softly throughout the galleries. Plate steel display cases convey an institutional starkness, and POWs don't have many possessions to exhibit anyway. We saw sandals made of straw, socks knitted from string, a suit made of tent canvas. Some prisoners from the War of 1812 had the time to make a fully-rigged sailing ship model out of beef, mutton, and pork bones -- but the general impression is that most American POWs have had little time for hobbies or access to meat.

The museum's most elaborate presentation is about Americans captured in the Vietnam War. Peering through a slot in a wall reveals a dark chamber containing the dummy of a grim, barefoot POW sitting on a thin straw mat, manacled to a concrete slab. The sound of sickly coughing fills the cell, along with harsh commands barked over a loudspeaker ("On your feet! No talking!"), and the droning monotone of a prisoner reading antiwar statements at a staged North Vietnamese press conference. Next to the cell stands a life-size bamboo "tiger cage" (built for the museum by the U.S. military).

More recent artifacts in the museum include the flight suit worn by a woman Army surgeon who was shot down during the Gulf War, and a display titled "The First 21st Century American POWs," whose six members included a single mom, a Filipino- and a Mexican-American, and two soldiers over 30. Diversity, yay!

View Coin

United States

S$1 1995 S CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELDS

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

The American Civil War, also known as the War between the States or simply the Civil War (see naming), was a civil war fought from 1861 to 1865 in the United States after several Southern slave states declared their secession and formed the Confederate States of America (the "Confederacy" or the "South"). The states that remained were known as the "Union" or the "North". The war had its origin in the fractious issue of slavery, especially the extension of slavery into the western territories.[4] Foreign powers did not intervene. After four years of bloody combat that left over 600,000 soldiers dead and destroyed much of the South's infrastructure, the Confederacy collapsed, slavery was abolished, and the difficult Reconstruction process of restoring national unity and guaranteeing rights to the freed slaves began.

In the 1860 presidential election, Republicans, led by Abraham Lincoln, opposed the expansion of slavery into United States' territories. Lincoln won, but before his inauguration on March 4, 1861, seven slave states with cotton-based economies formed the Confederacy. Outgoing Democratic President James Buchanan and the incoming Republicans rejected secession as illegal. Lincoln's inaugural address declared his administration would not initiate civil war. Eight remaining slave states continued to reject calls for secession. Confederate forces seized numerous federal forts within territory claimed by the Confederacy. A peace conference failed to find a compromise, and both sides prepared for war. The Confederates assumed that European countries were so dependent on "King Cotton" that they would intervene; none did and none recognized the new Confederate States of America.

Hostilities began on April 12, 1861, when Confederate forces fired upon Fort Sumter, a key fort held by Union troops in South Carolina. Lincoln called for each state to provide troops to retake the fort; consequently, four more slave states joined the Confederacy, bringing their total to eleven. The Union soon controlled the border states and established a naval blockade that crippled the southern economy. The Eastern Theater was inconclusive in 1861–62. The autumn 1862 Confederate campaign into Maryland (a Union state) ended with Confederate retreat at the Battle of Antietam, dissuading British intervention. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which made ending slavery a war goal. To the west, by summer 1862 the Union destroyed the Confederate river navy, then much of their western armies, and the Union siege of Vicksburg split the Confederacy in two at the Mississippi River. In 1863, Robert E. Lee's Confederate incursion north ended at the Battle of Gettysburg. Western successes led to Ulysses S. Grant's command of all Union armies in 1864. In the Western Theater, William T. Sherman drove east to capture Atlanta and marched to the sea, destroying Confederate infrastructure along the way. The Union marshaled the resources and manpower to attack the Confederacy from all directions, and could afford to fight battles of attrition through the Overland Campaign towards Richmond, the Confederate capital. The defending Confederate army failed, leading to Lee's surrender to Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. All Confederate generals surrendered by that summer.

The American Civil War was one of the earliest true industrial wars. Railroads, the telegraph, steamships, and mass-produced weapons were employed extensively. The mobilization of civilian factories, mines, shipyards, banks, transportation and food supplies all foreshadowed World War I. It remains the deadliest war in American history, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 750,000 soldiers and an undetermined number of civilian casualties. Historian John Huddleston estimates the death toll at ten percent of all Northern males 20–45 years old, and 30 percent of all Southern white males aged 18–40.

View Coin

United States

50C 1995 S CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELDS

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

The American Civil War, also known as the War between the States or simply the Civil War (see naming), was a civil war fought from 1861 to 1865 in the United States after several Southern slave states declared their secession and formed the Confederate States of America (the "Confederacy" or the "South"). The states that remained were known as the "Union" or the "North". The war had its origin in the fractious issue of slavery, especially the extension of slavery into the western territories.[4] Foreign powers did not intervene. After four years of bloody combat that left over 600,000 soldiers dead and destroyed much of the South's infrastructure, the Confederacy collapsed, slavery was abolished, and the difficult Reconstruction process of restoring national unity and guaranteeing rights to the freed slaves began.

In the 1860 presidential election, Republicans, led by Abraham Lincoln, opposed the expansion of slavery into United States' territories. Lincoln won, but before his inauguration on March 4, 1861, seven slave states with cotton-based economies formed the Confederacy. Outgoing Democratic President James Buchanan and the incoming Republicans rejected secession as illegal. Lincoln's inaugural address declared his administration would not initiate civil war. Eight remaining slave states continued to reject calls for secession. Confederate forces seized numerous federal forts within territory claimed by the Confederacy. A peace conference failed to find a compromise, and both sides prepared for war. The Confederates assumed that European countries were so dependent on "King Cotton" that they would intervene; none did and none recognized the new Confederate States of America.

Hostilities began on April 12, 1861, when Confederate forces fired upon Fort Sumter, a key fort held by Union troops in South Carolina. Lincoln called for each state to provide troops to retake the fort; consequently, four more slave states joined the Confederacy, bringing their total to eleven. The Union soon controlled the border states and established a naval blockade that crippled the southern economy. The Eastern Theater was inconclusive in 1861–62. The autumn 1862 Confederate campaign into Maryland (a Union state) ended with Confederate retreat at the Battle of Antietam, dissuading British intervention. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which made ending slavery a war goal. To the west, by summer 1862 the Union destroyed the Confederate river navy, then much of their western armies, and the Union siege of Vicksburg split the Confederacy in two at the Mississippi River. In 1863, Robert E. Lee's Confederate incursion north ended at the Battle of Gettysburg. Western successes led to Ulysses S. Grant's command of all Union armies in 1864. In the Western Theater, William T. Sherman drove east to capture Atlanta and marched to the sea, destroying Confederate infrastructure along the way. The Union marshaled the resources and manpower to attack the Confederacy from all directions, and could afford to fight battles of attrition through the Overland Campaign towards Richmond, the Confederate capital. The defending Confederate army failed, leading to Lee's surrender to Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. All Confederate generals surrendered by that summer.

The American Civil War was one of the earliest true industrial wars. Railroads, the telegraph, steamships, and mass-produced weapons were employed extensively. The mobilization of civilian factories, mines, shipyards, banks, transportation and food supplies all foreshadowed World War I. It remains the deadliest war in American history, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 750,000 soldiers and an undetermined number of civilian casualties. Historian John Huddleston estimates the death toll at ten percent of all Northern males 20–45 years old, and 30 percent of all Southern white males aged 18–40.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1995 P CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELDS

NGC MS 69

The American Civil War, also known as the War between the States or simply the Civil War (see naming), was a civil war fought from 1861 to 1865 in the United States after several Southern slave states declared their secession and formed the Confederate States of America (the "Confederacy" or the "South"). The states that remained were known as the "Union" or the "North". The war had its origin in the fractious issue of slavery, especially the extension of slavery into the western territories.[4] Foreign powers did not intervene. After four years of bloody combat that left over 600,000 soldiers dead and destroyed much of the South's infrastructure, the Confederacy collapsed, slavery was abolished, and the difficult Reconstruction process of restoring national unity and guaranteeing rights to the freed slaves began.

In the 1860 presidential election, Republicans, led by Abraham Lincoln, opposed the expansion of slavery into United States' territories. Lincoln won, but before his inauguration on March 4, 1861, seven slave states with cotton-based economies formed the Confederacy. Outgoing Democratic President James Buchanan and the incoming Republicans rejected secession as illegal. Lincoln's inaugural address declared his administration would not initiate civil war. Eight remaining slave states continued to reject calls for secession. Confederate forces seized numerous federal forts within territory claimed by the Confederacy. A peace conference failed to find a compromise, and both sides prepared for war. The Confederates assumed that European countries were so dependent on "King Cotton" that they would intervene; none did and none recognized the new Confederate States of America.

Hostilities began on April 12, 1861, when Confederate forces fired upon Fort Sumter, a key fort held by Union troops in South Carolina. Lincoln called for each state to provide troops to retake the fort; consequently, four more slave states joined the Confederacy, bringing their total to eleven. The Union soon controlled the border states and established a naval blockade that crippled the southern economy. The Eastern Theater was inconclusive in 1861–62. The autumn 1862 Confederate campaign into Maryland (a Union state) ended with Confederate retreat at the Battle of Antietam, dissuading British intervention. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which made ending slavery a war goal. To the west, by summer 1862 the Union destroyed the Confederate river navy, then much of their western armies, and the Union siege of Vicksburg split the Confederacy in two at the Mississippi River. In 1863, Robert E. Lee's Confederate incursion north ended at the Battle of Gettysburg. Western successes led to Ulysses S. Grant's command of all Union armies in 1864. In the Western Theater, William T. Sherman drove east to capture Atlanta and marched to the sea, destroying Confederate infrastructure along the way. The Union marshaled the resources and manpower to attack the Confederacy from all directions, and could afford to fight battles of attrition through the Overland Campaign towards Richmond, the Confederate capital. The defending Confederate army failed, leading to Lee's surrender to Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. All Confederate generals surrendered by that summer.

The American Civil War was one of the earliest true industrial wars. Railroads, the telegraph, steamships, and mass-produced weapons were employed extensively. The mobilization of civilian factories, mines, shipyards, banks, transportation and food supplies all foreshadowed World War I. It remains the deadliest war in American history, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 750,000 soldiers and an undetermined number of civilian casualties. Historian John Huddleston estimates the death toll at ten percent of all Northern males 20–45 years old, and 30 percent of all Southern white males aged 18–40.

View Coin

United States

50C 1995 S CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELDS

NGC MS 69

The American Civil War, also known as the War between the States or simply the Civil War (see naming), was a civil war fought from 1861 to 1865 in the United States after several Southern slave states declared their secession and formed the Confederate States of America (the "Confederacy" or the "South"). The states that remained were known as the "Union" or the "North". The war had its origin in the fractious issue of slavery, especially the extension of slavery into the western territories.[4] Foreign powers did not intervene. After four years of bloody combat that left over 600,000 soldiers dead and destroyed much of the South's infrastructure, the Confederacy collapsed, slavery was abolished, and the difficult Reconstruction process of restoring national unity and guaranteeing rights to the freed slaves began.

In the 1860 presidential election, Republicans, led by Abraham Lincoln, opposed the expansion of slavery into United States' territories. Lincoln won, but before his inauguration on March 4, 1861, seven slave states with cotton-based economies formed the Confederacy. Outgoing Democratic President James Buchanan and the incoming Republicans rejected secession as illegal. Lincoln's inaugural address declared his administration would not initiate civil war. Eight remaining slave states continued to reject calls for secession. Confederate forces seized numerous federal forts within territory claimed by the Confederacy. A peace conference failed to find a compromise, and both sides prepared for war. The Confederates assumed that European countries were so dependent on "King Cotton" that they would intervene; none did and none recognized the new Confederate States of America.

Hostilities began on April 12, 1861, when Confederate forces fired upon Fort Sumter, a key fort held by Union troops in South Carolina. Lincoln called for each state to provide troops to retake the fort; consequently, four more slave states joined the Confederacy, bringing their total to eleven. The Union soon controlled the border states and established a naval blockade that crippled the southern economy. The Eastern Theater was inconclusive in 1861–62. The autumn 1862 Confederate campaign into Maryland (a Union state) ended with Confederate retreat at the Battle of Antietam, dissuading British intervention. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which made ending slavery a war goal. To the west, by summer 1862 the Union destroyed the Confederate river navy, then much of their western armies, and the Union siege of Vicksburg split the Confederacy in two at the Mississippi River. In 1863, Robert E. Lee's Confederate incursion north ended at the Battle of Gettysburg. Western successes led to Ulysses S. Grant's command of all Union armies in 1864. In the Western Theater, William T. Sherman drove east to capture Atlanta and marched to the sea, destroying Confederate infrastructure along the way. The Union marshaled the resources and manpower to attack the Confederacy from all directions, and could afford to fight battles of attrition through the Overland Campaign towards Richmond, the Confederate capital. The defending Confederate army failed, leading to Lee's surrender to Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865. All Confederate generals surrendered by that summer.

The American Civil War was one of the earliest true industrial wars. Railroads, the telegraph, steamships, and mass-produced weapons were employed extensively. The mobilization of civilian factories, mines, shipyards, banks, transportation and food supplies all foreshadowed World War I. It remains the deadliest war in American history, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 750,000 soldiers and an undetermined number of civilian casualties. Historian John Huddleston estimates the death toll at ten percent of all Northern males 20–45 years old, and 30 percent of all Southern white males aged 18–40.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1998 S BLACK PATRIOTS

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

The Black Revolutionaries

Crispus Attucks (c. 1723 – March 5, 1770) was an American slave, merchant seaman and dockworker of Wampanoag and African descent. When people think of the patriots who fought for the United States' freedom, most are unaware that the first patriot to die was an African American man. Crispus Attucks was killed by the British in the Boston Massacre of 1770. Attucks was the first but not the only African American patriot. More than 5,000 fought in the Revolutionary War--although the liberty they fought for would be something only their descendents would enjoy. In Virginia, dozens froze, starved and died; the 1st Rhode Island Regiment was made up entirely of 250 African Americans. British General Cornwallis was completely fooled by double agent James Armistead, the African American man who stood by General Lafayette's side when Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown.

Little is known for certain about Crispus Attucks beyond that he, along with Samuel Gray and James Caldwell, died "on the spot" during the incident. Two major sources of eyewitness testimony about the Boston Massacre, both published in 1770, did not refer to Attucks as a "Negro," or "black" man; it appeared that Bostonians accepted him as mixed race. Historians disagree on whether Crispus Attucks was a free man or an escaped slave; but agree that he was of Wampanoag and African descent.

While the extent of his participation in events leading to the massacre is unclear, Attucks in the 19th century became an icon of the anti-slavery movement. He was held up as the first martyr of the American Revolution along with others shot dead. In the early 19th century, as the Abolitionist movement gained momentum in Boston, supporters lauded Attucks as a black American who played a heroic role in the history of the United States Because Attucks had Wampanoag ancestors, his story also holds special significance for many Native Americans.

Legacy and honors

• 1858, Boston-area abolitionists, including William Cooper Nell, established "Crispus Attucks Day" to commemorate him.

• 1886, the places where Crispus Attucks and Samuel Gray fell were marked by circles on the pavement. Within each circle, a hub with spokes leads out to form a wheel.

• 1888, a monument honoring Attucks and the other victims of the Boston Massacre was erected on Boston Common. It is over 25 feet high and about 10 feet wide. The "bas-relief" (raised portion on the face of the main part of the monument) portrays the Boston Massacre, with Attucks lying in the foreground. Under the scene is the date, March 5, 1770. Above the bas-relief stands a female figure, Free America, holding the broken chain of oppression in her right hand. Beneath her right foot, she crushes the royal crown of England. At the left of the figure, is an eagle. Thirteen stars are cut into one of the faces of the monument. Beneath these stars in raised letters are the names of the five men who were killed that day: Crispus Attucks, Samuel Gray, James Caldwell, Samuel Maverick, and Patrick Carr.

• Although that year leaders of the Massachusetts Historical Society and the New England Historic Genealogical Society opposed the creation of the Crispus Attucks memorial, since the 20th century both organizations have acknowledged his role and promoted interest in black history and genealogy.

• 1998, the United States Treasury released "The Black Revolutionary War Patriots Silver Dollar" featuring Attucks' image on the obverse side. Funds from sales of the coin were intended for a proposed Black Revolutionary War Patriots Memorial in Washington, DC.

• 2002, the Afrocentrist scholar Molefi Kete Asante listed Crispus Attucks as among the 100 Greatest African Americans.

View Coin

United States

S$1 1998 S BLACK PATRIOTS

NGC MS 69

The Black Revolutionaries

Crispus Attucks (c. 1723 – March 5, 1770) was an American slave, merchant seaman and dockworker of Wampanoag and African descent. When people think of the patriots who fought for the United States' freedom, most are unaware that the first patriot to die was an African American man. Crispus Attucks was killed by the British in the Boston Massacre of 1770. Attucks was the first but not the only African American patriot. More than 5,000 fought in the Revolutionary War--although the liberty they fought for would be something only their descendents would enjoy. In Virginia, dozens froze, starved and died; the 1st Rhode Island Regiment was made up entirely of 250 African Americans. British General Cornwallis was completely fooled by double agent James Armistead, the African American man who stood by General Lafayette's side when Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown.

Little is known for certain about Crispus Attucks beyond that he, along with Samuel Gray and James Caldwell, died "on the spot" during the incident. Two major sources of eyewitness testimony about the Boston Massacre, both published in 1770, did not refer to Attucks as a "Negro," or "black" man; it appeared that Bostonians accepted him as mixed race. Historians disagree on whether Crispus Attucks was a free man or an escaped slave; but agree that he was of Wampanoag and African descent.

While the extent of his participation in events leading to the massacre is unclear, Attucks in the 19th century became an icon of the anti-slavery movement. He was held up as the first martyr of the American Revolution along with others shot dead. In the early 19th century, as the Abolitionist movement gained momentum in Boston, supporters lauded Attucks as a black American who played a heroic role in the history of the United States Because Attucks had Wampanoag ancestors, his story also holds special significance for many Native Americans.

Legacy and honors

• 1858, Boston-area abolitionists, including William Cooper Nell, established "Crispus Attucks Day" to commemorate him.

• 1886, the places where Crispus Attucks and Samuel Gray fell were marked by circles on the pavement. Within each circle, a hub with spokes leads out to form a wheel.

• 1888, a monument honoring Attucks and the other victims of the Boston Massacre was erected on Boston Common. It is over 25 feet high and about 10 feet wide. The "bas-relief" (raised portion on the face of the main part of the monument) portrays the Boston Massacre, with Attucks lying in the foreground. Under the scene is the date, March 5, 1770. Above the bas-relief stands a female figure, Free America, holding the broken chain of oppression in her right hand. Beneath her right foot, she crushes the royal crown of England. At the left of the figure, is an eagle. Thirteen stars are cut into one of the faces of the monument. Beneath these stars in raised letters are the names of the five men who were killed that day: Crispus Attucks, Samuel Gray, James Caldwell, Samuel Maverick, and Patrick Carr.

• Although that year leaders of the Massachusetts Historical Society and the New England Historic Genealogical Society opposed the creation of the Crispus Attucks memorial, since the 20th century both organizations have acknowledged his role and promoted interest in black history and genealogy.

• 1998, the United States Treasury released "The Black Revolutionary War Patriots Silver Dollar" featuring Attucks' image on the obverse side. Funds from sales of the coin were intended for a proposed Black Revolutionary War Patriots Memorial in Washington, DC.

• 2002, the Afrocentrist scholar Molefi Kete Asante listed Crispus Attucks as among the 100 Greatest African Americans.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2002 W WEST POINT BICENTENNIAL

NGC MS 69

On March 16, 1802, President Thomas Jefferson signed into law a bill of the United States Congress authorizing the establishment of "a military academy to be located at West Point in the State of New York." During 2002, the Bicentennial of the founding of the United States Military Academy were observed at West Point and at other designated places throughout the world.

The purpose of the Bicentennial is "to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the founding of the United States Military Academy by celebrating its contributions to the Nation and the people of the world."

The United States Military Academy has been educating, training, and inspiring leaders of character for our United States Army and for the nation for more than 200 years. West Point provides a 47-month leader-development program steeped in academic rigor, military discipline, and physical challenges, all built upon a moral-ethical foundation. The academy is an internationally recognized institution for academic, military and physical excellence, and we are proud that today's cadets will become tomorrow's military, public and private-sector leaders.

West Point's purpose is to produce leaders of character who are prepared to provide selfless service to our Army and the nation. West Point provides a broad-based and balanced curriculum to ensure graduates acquire knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary for them to effectively address the complex and uncertain challenges they will face in their personal and professional lives. When students enter the United States Military Academy at West Point, they are beginning a profession. Career development starts on the first day; everything cadets experience is focused on developing them as leaders of character who will serve as officers in America's Army upon graduation, when they are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. As they begin their military careers, they become leaders of Soldiers, and each new promotion brings additional responsibility and increased opportunity.

West Point is about choosing a direction in life that puts service to the nation first and allows each graduate to be a standard-bearer for their generation and the generations that follow. The cadets who graduate as commissioned officers and serve the nation are our lasting legacy and are what makes West Point great.

While academic courses are the building blocks of most typical universities, career development at West Point is geared toward the cadet's goal of being an officer in the United States Army, so military discipline and training are paramount to their officer development. Cadets are immersed from day one in a military environment where they are organized in companies and serve in leadership positions within the Corps of Cadets. The heart of the military training takes place during the summer. The basic Soldier skills of rifle marksmanship, land navigation, and close combat are but the underpinnings of each cadet's initial training the first summer; by graduation every cadet has participated in small-unit leadership training; attended military schools such as Airborne and Air Assault; served as senior leadership to junior cadets' summer training; and interned as an office in active duty units across the globe. Each summer of training builds the leadership skills of the previous, so that by graduation each cadet is prepared to lead Soldiers and serve our nation. No matter what major course of study they choose, cadets graduate with the knowledge, confidence, and ability to be successful in their careers.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2002 W WEST POINT BICENTENNIAL

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

On March 16, 1802, President Thomas Jefferson signed into law a bill of the United States Congress authorizing the establishment of "a military academy to be located at West Point in the State of New York." During 2002, the Bicentennial of the founding of the United States Military Academy were observed at West Point and at other designated places throughout the world.

The purpose of the Bicentennial is "to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the founding of the United States Military Academy by celebrating its contributions to the Nation and the people of the world."

The United States Military Academy has been educating, training, and inspiring leaders of character for our United States Army and for the nation for more than 200 years. West Point provides a 47-month leader-development program steeped in academic rigor, military discipline, and physical challenges, all built upon a moral-ethical foundation. The academy is an internationally recognized institution for academic, military and physical excellence, and we are proud that today's cadets will become tomorrow's military, public and private-sector leaders.

West Point's purpose is to produce leaders of character who are prepared to provide selfless service to our Army and the nation. West Point provides a broad-based and balanced curriculum to ensure graduates acquire knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary for them to effectively address the complex and uncertain challenges they will face in their personal and professional lives. When students enter the United States Military Academy at West Point, they are beginning a profession. Career development starts on the first day; everything cadets experience is focused on developing them as leaders of character who will serve as officers in America's Army upon graduation, when they are commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. As they begin their military careers, they become leaders of Soldiers, and each new promotion brings additional responsibility and increased opportunity.

West Point is about choosing a direction in life that puts service to the nation first and allows each graduate to be a standard-bearer for their generation and the generations that follow. The cadets who graduate as commissioned officers and serve the nation are our lasting legacy and are what makes West Point great.

While academic courses are the building blocks of most typical universities, career development at West Point is geared toward the cadet's goal of being an officer in the United States Army, so military discipline and training are paramount to their officer development. Cadets are immersed from day one in a military environment where they are organized in companies and serve in leadership positions within the Corps of Cadets. The heart of the military training takes place during the summer. The basic Soldier skills of rifle marksmanship, land navigation, and close combat are but the underpinnings of each cadet's initial training the first summer; by graduation every cadet has participated in small-unit leadership training; attended military schools such as Airborne and Air Assault; served as senior leadership to junior cadets' summer training; and interned as an office in active duty units across the globe. Each summer of training builds the leadership skills of the previous, so that by graduation each cadet is prepared to lead Soldiers and serve our nation. No matter what major course of study they choose, cadets graduate with the knowledge, confidence, and ability to be successful in their careers.

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United States

S$1 2005 P MARINE CORPS ANNIVERSARY

NGC MS 70

On November 10, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the raising of two battalions of American Marines, thereby creating the legendary institution today known as the United States Marine Corps. From the Nation’s birth to the present day, the Marines represent a proud culture of service and contribution in defense of the values and freedoms at the heart of the American experience.

According to the Marines Hymn, Marines have "fought in ev’ry clime and place" throughout our Nation’s history. The story of the Marine Corps is the personification of American military history beginning with the American Revolution. The flag raising at Iwo Jima, represented at the Marine Corps War Memorial, is ingrained in the public mind as perhaps the enduring image of World War II.

Today, the Marines continue to exemplify the warrior ethos that has made it a fighting force of international repute. The philosophy of the Corps—and of the hundreds of thousands of individuals who have earned the title "Marine" over the last 230 years—is simply stated in its core values: Honor. Courage. Commitment.

The United States Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, honors all Marines who have perished while defending the United States and liberty around the world and depicts one of the most historic battles of World War II, the battle of Iwo Jima. The famous bronze statue, one of the most recognized statues in the United States and around the world, depicts the February 23, 1945 flag-raising on Mount Suribachi during the World War II battle of Iwo Jima.

The bronze state depicts six 32-foot high figures, five Marines and one Navy corpsman, raising a 60-foot flagpole. A cloth American flag flies from the flagpole 24 hours a day. At a weight of 100 tons and a height of 78 feet, the Iwo Jima statue is the largest bronze statue in the world. The base is concrete and polished black granite.

The Battle of Iwo Jima

On February 19, 1945 about 70,000 Marines invaded the small Pacific Island of Iwo Jima which was under control of the Japanese army. The island was a strategic objective due to its airfield which was used for kamikaze attacks. By capturing the island, the Allied Forces would not only prevent attacks from the island but it would also give them a base from where the Japanese mainland could be reached by B-29 Superfortresses.

Mount Suribachi

One of the first objectives in the attack was capturing Mount Suribachi, the highest point on the island. On February 23, the mountain was almost secured. At around 10:30 am, a small American flag was raised atop the mountain. Later that day, a much larger flag was raised by five Marines and a Navy corpsman. The raising was witnessed by news photographer Joe Rosenthal whose pulitzer prize winning picture of the flag raising would become a symbol of the war in the Pacific. It was soon used by the American government to sell war bonds and to promote the war effort.

The battle of Iwo Jima was one of the bloodiest in the war, with more than 6,800 American and 23,000 Japanese casualties. Of the six soldiers shown on Rosenthal's picture, only three survived the war. The other three were killed during further battle at Iwo Jima.

There are six Flag Raisers on the famous Iwo Jima photo. Four in the front line and two in back. The front four are (left to right) Ira Hayes, Franklin Sousley, John Bradley and Harlon Block. The back two are Michael Strank (behind Sousley) and Rene Gagnon (behind Bradley). Strank, Block and Sousley would die shortly afterwards. Bradley, Hayes and Gagnon became national heroes within weeks.

The memorial was officially dedicated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on November 10, 1954, the 179th anniversary of the Marine Corps. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy issued a proclamation that a Flag of the United States should fly from the memorial 24 hours a day, one of the few official sites where this is required.

The Marines of Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. use the memorial as a centerpiece of the weekly Sunset Parade featuring the Drum and Bugle Corps and by the Silent Drill Platoon.

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United States

S$1 2005 P Marine Corps Anniversary

NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO

On November 10, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the raising of two battalions of American Marines, thereby creating the legendary institution today known as the United States Marine Corps. From the Nation’s birth to the present day, the Marines represent a proud culture of service and contribution in defense of the values and freedoms at the heart of the American experience.

According to the Marines Hymn, Marines have "fought in ev’ry clime and place" throughout our Nation’s history. The story of the Marine Corps is the personification of American military history beginning with the American Revolution. The flag raising at Iwo Jima, represented at the Marine Corps War Memorial, is ingrained in the public mind as perhaps the enduring image of World War II.

Today, the Marines continue to exemplify the warrior ethos that has made it a fighting force of international repute. The philosophy of the Corps—and of the hundreds of thousands of individuals who have earned the title "Marine" over the last 230 years—is simply stated in its core values: Honor. Courage. Commitment.

The United States Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, honors all Marines who have perished while defending the United States and liberty around the world and depicts one of the most historic battles of World War II, the battle of Iwo Jima. The famous bronze statue, one of the most recognized statues in the United States and around the world, depicts the February 23, 1945 flag-raising on Mount Suribachi during the World War II battle of Iwo Jima.

The bronze state depicts six 32-foot high figures, five Marines and one Navy corpsman, raising a 60-foot flagpole. A cloth American flag flies from the flagpole 24 hours a day. At a weight of 100 tons and a height of 78 feet, the Iwo Jima statue is the largest bronze statue in the world. The base is concrete and polished black granite.

The Battle of Iwo Jima

On February 19, 1945 about 70,000 Marines invaded the small Pacific Island of Iwo Jima which was under control of the Japanese army. The island was a strategic objective due to its airfield which was used for kamikaze attacks. By capturing the island, the Allied Forces would not only prevent attacks from the island but it would also give them a base from where the Japanese mainland could be reached by B-29 Superfortresses.

Mount Suribachi

One of the first objectives in the attack was capturing Mount Suribachi, the highest point on the island. On February 23, the mountain was almost secured. At around 10:30 am, a small American flag was raised atop the mountain. Later that day, a much larger flag was raised by five Marines and a Navy corpsman. The raising was witnessed by news photographer Joe Rosenthal whose pulitzer prize winning picture of the flag raising would become a symbol of the war in the Pacific. It was soon used by the American government to sell war bonds and to promote the war effort.

The battle of Iwo Jima was one of the bloodiest in the war, with more than 6,800 American and 23,000 Japanese casualties. Of the six soldiers shown on Rosenthal's picture, only three survived the war. The other three were killed during further battle at Iwo Jima.

There are six Flag Raisers on the famous Iwo Jima photo. Four in the front line and two in back. The front four are (left to right) Ira Hayes, Franklin Sousley, John Bradley and Harlon Block. The back two are Michael Strank (behind Sousley) and Rene Gagnon (behind Bradley). Strank, Block and Sousley would die shortly afterwards. Bradley, Hayes and Gagnon became national heroes within weeks.

The memorial was officially dedicated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on November 10, 1954, the 179th anniversary of the Marine Corps. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy issued a proclamation that a Flag of the United States should fly from the memorial 24 hours a day, one of the few official sites where this is required.

The Marines of Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. use the memorial as a centerpiece of the weekly Sunset Parade featuring the Drum and Bugle Corps and by the Silent Drill Platoon.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2008 P BALD EAGLE

NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO

The 2008 Bald Eagle Commemorative Coin Program

The Bald Eagle, nearing the brink of extinction just 35 years ago, has made remarkable progress and is still expanding its presence throughout our Nation's lands and skies. Public Law 108-486, signed by President George W. Bush on December 23, 2004, calls for the United States Mint to mint and issue three commemorative coins that celebrate the encouraging recovery of the Bald Eagle species, the 35th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the removal of the Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List.

In 1782, the Second Continental Congress selected the Bald Eagle as our National Emblem of the United States and made it the centerpiece of the Great Seal of the United States. The majestic Bald Eagle has come to symbolize America's freedom, strength and democracy.

Bald Eagles were once abundant throughout our Nation. But poaching, habitat destruction, pesticides, and food source contamination took their toll, reducing the population from approximately 100,000 nesting pairs at the founding of our Nation to just over 400 nesting pairs in the early 1960's.

The path to recovery took the efforts of governments, private organizations, and citizens determined to save our National emblem. The ban on the use of certain pesticides in 1972, the protections provided under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and efforts such as captive breeding and nest watch programs, provided the vital protection that the Bald Eagles needed to survive. The success of this recovery effort culminated in the removal of the Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List in 2007. About 10,000 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles can now be found throughout the continental United States.

The Bald Eagle Commemorative Coin Program consists of three coins – a $5 gold coin, a silver dollar, and a half-dollar clad coin – available in both proof and uncirculated conditions. Surcharges from the program are authorized to be paid to the American Eagle Foundation of Tennessee for the purposes of continuing its work to save and protect Bald Eagles nationally.

The maximum mintages across all product options for these commemorative coins are limited to 100,000 for the $5 gold coin, 500,000 for the silver dollar, and 750,000 for the half-dollar.

Bald Eagle Silver Dollars

Weight: 26.730 grams nominal
Diameter: 1.500 inches (± 0.003 inches)
Composition: 90% silver, 10% alloy
Mintage Limit: 500,000 (across all product options)
Bald Eagle Half-dollars

Weight: 11.340 grams (± 0.454)
Diameter: 1.205 inches (± 0.002 inches)
Composition: 8.33% nickel, balance copper
Mintage Limit: 750,000 (across all product options)

View Coin

United States

50C 2008 S BALD EAGLE

NGC MS 70

The 2008 Bald Eagle Commemorative Coin Program

The Bald Eagle, nearing the brink of extinction just 35 years ago, has made remarkable progress and is still expanding its presence throughout our Nation's lands and skies. Public Law 108-486, signed by President George W. Bush on December 23, 2004, calls for the United States Mint to mint and issue three commemorative coins that celebrate the encouraging recovery of the Bald Eagle species, the 35th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the removal of the Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List.

In 1782, the Second Continental Congress selected the Bald Eagle as our National Emblem of the United States and made it the centerpiece of the Great Seal of the United States. The majestic Bald Eagle has come to symbolize America's freedom, strength and democracy.

Bald Eagles were once abundant throughout our Nation. But poaching, habitat destruction, pesticides, and food source contamination took their toll, reducing the population from approximately 100,000 nesting pairs at the founding of our Nation to just over 400 nesting pairs in the early 1960's.

The path to recovery took the efforts of governments, private organizations, and citizens determined to save our National emblem. The ban on the use of certain pesticides in 1972, the protections provided under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and efforts such as captive breeding and nest watch programs, provided the vital protection that the Bald Eagles needed to survive. The success of this recovery effort culminated in the removal of the Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List in 2007. About 10,000 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles can now be found throughout the continental United States.

The Bald Eagle Commemorative Coin Program consists of three coins – a $5 gold coin, a silver dollar, and a half-dollar clad coin – available in both proof and uncirculated conditions. Surcharges from the program are authorized to be paid to the American Eagle Foundation of Tennessee for the purposes of continuing its work to save and protect Bald Eagles nationally.

The maximum mintages across all product options for these commemorative coins are limited to 100,000 for the $5 gold coin, 500,000 for the silver dollar, and 750,000 for the half-dollar.

Bald Eagle Silver Dollars

Weight: 26.730 grams nominal
Diameter: 1.500 inches (± 0.003 inches)
Composition: 90% silver, 10% alloy
Mintage Limit: 500,000 (across all product options)
Bald Eagle Half-dollars

Weight: 11.340 grams (± 0.454)
Diameter: 1.205 inches (± 0.002 inches)
Composition: 8.33% nickel, balance copper
Mintage Limit: 750,000 (across all product options)

View Coin

United States

50C 2008 S BALD EAGLE

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

The 2008 Bald Eagle Commemorative Coin Program

The Bald Eagle, nearing the brink of extinction just 35 years ago, has made remarkable progress and is still expanding its presence throughout our Nation's lands and skies. Public Law 108-486, signed by President George W. Bush on December 23, 2004, calls for the United States Mint to mint and issue three commemorative coins that celebrate the encouraging recovery of the Bald Eagle species, the 35th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the removal of the Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List.

In 1782, the Second Continental Congress selected the Bald Eagle as our National Emblem of the United States and made it the centerpiece of the Great Seal of the United States. The majestic Bald Eagle has come to symbolize America's freedom, strength and democracy.

Bald Eagles were once abundant throughout our Nation. But poaching, habitat destruction, pesticides, and food source contamination took their toll, reducing the population from approximately 100,000 nesting pairs at the founding of our Nation to just over 400 nesting pairs in the early 1960's.

The path to recovery took the efforts of governments, private organizations, and citizens determined to save our National emblem. The ban on the use of certain pesticides in 1972, the protections provided under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and efforts such as captive breeding and nest watch programs, provided the vital protection that the Bald Eagles needed to survive. The success of this recovery effort culminated in the removal of the Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List in 2007. About 10,000 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles can now be found throughout the continental United States.

The Bald Eagle Commemorative Coin Program consists of three coins – a $5 gold coin, a silver dollar, and a half-dollar clad coin – available in both proof and uncirculated conditions. Surcharges from the program are authorized to be paid to the American Eagle Foundation of Tennessee for the purposes of continuing its work to save and protect Bald Eagles nationally.

The maximum mintages across all product options for these commemorative coins are limited to 100,000 for the $5 gold coin, 500,000 for the silver dollar, and 750,000 for the half-dollar.

Bald Eagle Silver Dollars

Weight: 26.730 grams nominal
Diameter: 1.500 inches (± 0.003 inches)
Composition: 90% silver, 10% alloy
Mintage Limit: 500,000 (across all product options)
Bald Eagle Half-dollars

Weight: 11.340 grams (± 0.454)
Diameter: 1.205 inches (± 0.002 inches)
Composition: 8.33% nickel, balance copper
Mintage Limit: 750,000 (across all product options)

View Coin

United States

S$1 2008 P BALD EAGLE

NGC MS 69

The 2008 Bald Eagle Commemorative Coin Program

The Bald Eagle, nearing the brink of extinction just 35 years ago, has made remarkable progress and is still expanding its presence throughout our Nation's lands and skies. Public Law 108-486, signed by President George W. Bush on December 23, 2004, calls for the United States Mint to mint and issue three commemorative coins that celebrate the encouraging recovery of the Bald Eagle species, the 35th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and the removal of the Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List.

In 1782, the Second Continental Congress selected the Bald Eagle as our National Emblem of the United States and made it the centerpiece of the Great Seal of the United States. The majestic Bald Eagle has come to symbolize America's freedom, strength and democracy.

Bald Eagles were once abundant throughout our Nation. But poaching, habitat destruction, pesticides, and food source contamination took their toll, reducing the population from approximately 100,000 nesting pairs at the founding of our Nation to just over 400 nesting pairs in the early 1960's.

The path to recovery took the efforts of governments, private organizations, and citizens determined to save our National emblem. The ban on the use of certain pesticides in 1972, the protections provided under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and efforts such as captive breeding and nest watch programs, provided the vital protection that the Bald Eagles needed to survive. The success of this recovery effort culminated in the removal of the Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List in 2007. About 10,000 nesting pairs of Bald Eagles can now be found throughout the continental United States.

The Bald Eagle Commemorative Coin Program consists of three coins – a $5 gold coin, a silver dollar, and a half-dollar clad coin – available in both proof and uncirculated conditions. Surcharges from the program are authorized to be paid to the American Eagle Foundation of Tennessee for the purposes of continuing its work to save and protect Bald Eagles nationally.

The maximum mintages across all product options for these commemorative coins are limited to 100,000 for the $5 gold coin, 500,000 for the silver dollar, and 750,000 for the half-dollar.

Bald Eagle Silver Dollars

Weight: 26.730 grams nominal
Diameter: 1.500 inches (± 0.003 inches)
Composition: 90% silver, 10% alloy
Mintage Limit: 500,000 (across all product options)
Bald Eagle Half-dollars

Weight: 11.340 grams (± 0.454)
Diameter: 1.205 inches (± 0.002 inches)
Composition: 8.33% nickel, balance copper
Mintage Limit: 750,000 (across all product options)

View Coin

United States

S$1 2009 P ABRAHAM LINCOLN

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Silver Dollar

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President, serving from 1861 – 1865, was one of America's great leaders, demonstrating uncommon courage during the Civil War, one of the greatest crises in our Nation’s history. His life is commemorated in music, poetry and sculpture; his words are quoted by poets and politicians; and his face appears on coins, currency and postage stamps. Mountains, cities, highways and schools throughout the country bear his name.

The year 2009 marks the bicentennial anniversary of Lincoln's birth. Public Law 109-285, the "Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Coin Act," signed into law on September 27, 2006, requires the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue $1 silver coins in commemoration of this milestone anniversary.

Born of humble roots in present-day LaRue County, Kentucky, on February 12, 1809, Lincoln reached the presidency through a combination of honesty, integrity, intelligence and commitment to the United States of America. With the firm belief that all men are created equal, he led the effort to end the institution of slavery in the United States.

President Lincoln had a generous heart, "with malice toward none, with charity for all." He gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country, dying from an assassin’s bullet on April 15, 1865, just days after the end of the Civil War.

In dedicating the Gettysburg National Cemetery* at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, site of one of the fiercest battles of the war, Lincoln eloquently reminded the country and the world why it was being waged:

"…we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this Nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

Today, the Gettysburg Address is recognized as one of the most beautiful and poetic statements in American literature, a moving tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and the ideals for which they died.
Those immortal words Lincoln spoke at Gettysburg -- the last 43 of his most famous speech -- are inscribed on the reverse (tails) of the Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Silver Dollar, encircled in a laurel wreath placed at its center. Above the wreath is the inscription, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Under the wreath is a curling banner with Lincoln’s signature incused in the center. On either side of the signature, ONE DOLLAR and E PLURIBUS UNUM are incused in the banner. The reverse was designed and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Phebe Hemphill.

The obverse (heads) of the 2009 Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Silver Dollar features an image of President Lincoln with the inscriptions LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST and 2009, designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Justin Kunz and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Don Everhart.
The image is symbolic of Lincoln’s strength and resolve, and was inspired by Daniel Chester French’s famous sculpture of the President that sits inside the Lincoln Memorial in Washington.

Surcharges from sales of the Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Silver Dollar are authorized to be paid to the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission to further its work in planning the celebration of Lincoln’s bicentennial and the continued study of his life.

Coin Specifications:

Weight: 26.73 grams
Diameter: 1.500 inches
Composition: 90 percent Silver; balance Copper
Mintage Limit: 500,000 (across all product options)

*The "Gettysburg National Cemetery" was originally called the "Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettysburg."

View Coin

United States

S$1 2009 P ABRAHAM LINCOLN

NGC MS 70

Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Silver Dollar

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President, serving from 1861 – 1865, was one of America's great leaders, demonstrating uncommon courage during the Civil War, one of the greatest crises in our Nation’s history. His life is commemorated in music, poetry and sculpture; his words are quoted by poets and politicians; and his face appears on coins, currency and postage stamps. Mountains, cities, highways and schools throughout the country bear his name.

The year 2009 marks the bicentennial anniversary of Lincoln's birth. Public Law 109-285, the "Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Coin Act," signed into law on September 27, 2006, requires the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue $1 silver coins in commemoration of this milestone anniversary.

Born of humble roots in present-day LaRue County, Kentucky, on February 12, 1809, Lincoln reached the presidency through a combination of honesty, integrity, intelligence and commitment to the United States of America. With the firm belief that all men are created equal, he led the effort to end the institution of slavery in the United States.

President Lincoln had a generous heart, "with malice toward none, with charity for all." He gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country, dying from an assassin’s bullet on April 15, 1865, just days after the end of the Civil War.

In dedicating the Gettysburg National Cemetery* at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, site of one of the fiercest battles of the war, Lincoln eloquently reminded the country and the world why it was being waged:

"…we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this Nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

Today, the Gettysburg Address is recognized as one of the most beautiful and poetic statements in American literature, a moving tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and the ideals for which they died.
Those immortal words Lincoln spoke at Gettysburg -- the last 43 of his most famous speech -- are inscribed on the reverse (tails) of the Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Silver Dollar, encircled in a laurel wreath placed at its center. Above the wreath is the inscription, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Under the wreath is a curling banner with Lincoln’s signature incused in the center. On either side of the signature, ONE DOLLAR and E PLURIBUS UNUM are incused in the banner. The reverse was designed and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Phebe Hemphill.

The obverse (heads) of the 2009 Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Silver Dollar features an image of President Lincoln with the inscriptions LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST and 2009, designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Justin Kunz and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Don Everhart.
The image is symbolic of Lincoln’s strength and resolve, and was inspired by Daniel Chester French’s famous sculpture of the President that sits inside the Lincoln Memorial in Washington.

Surcharges from sales of the Abraham Lincoln Commemorative Silver Dollar are authorized to be paid to the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission to further its work in planning the celebration of Lincoln’s bicentennial and the continued study of his life.

Coin Specifications:

Weight: 26.73 grams
Diameter: 1.500 inches
Composition: 90 percent Silver; balance Copper
Mintage Limit: 500,000 (across all product options)

*The "Gettysburg National Cemetery" was originally called the "Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettysburg."

View Coin

United States

S$1 2010 W DISABLED VETERANS

NGC MS 70

American Veterans Disabled for Life Commemorative Coin Act

Public Law 110–277 110th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of veterans who became disabled for life while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of the service of our disabled veterans who, having survived the ordeal of war, made enormous personal sacrifices defending the principles of our democracy.

• The Congress finds as follows:
 The Armed Forces of the United States have answered the call and served with distinction around the world—
from hitting the beaches in World War II in the Pacific and Europe, to the cold and difficult terrain in Korea, the
steamy jungles of Vietnam, and the desert sands of the Middle East.
 All Americans should commemorate those who come home having survived the ordeal of war, and solemnly
honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in giving their lives for their country.
 All Americans should honor the millions of living disabled veterans who carry the scars of war every day, and
who have made enormous personal sacrifices defending the principles of our democracy.
 In 2000, Congress authorized the construction of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial.
 The United States should pay tribute to the Nation’s living disabled veterans by minting and issuing a
commemorative silver dollar coin.
 The surcharge proceeds from the sale of a commemorative coin would raise valuable funding for the
construction of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial.

• Coin Specifications. $1 Silver Coins. The Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue not more than 350,000 $1
coins in commemoration of disabled American veterans, each of which shall be 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper.
• The coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities and only 1 facility of the
United States Mint may be used to strike any particular combination of denomination and quality for the coins
minted under this Act.
• It is the sense of the Congress that the coins minted under this Act should be struck at the United States Mint at
West Point, New York, to the greatest extent possible.

Approved July 17, 2008. The Secretary may issue coins under this Act only during the calendar year beginning on January 1, 2010.

Americans owe a tremendous debt to those who gave so much of themselves for our country. These include the millions of disabled veterans who continue to live with the wounds and scars of military service; those who have died after living with those wounds and scars; and those who gave their lives while defending our principles of democracy.

The images on the 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar capture the service of the brave men and women who have honored us with their selfless duty to defend our country. These veterans often carry permanent life-altering disabilities that serve as strong reminders of the price of freedom.

The coin designs are emblematic of the many stories of our disabled veterans' courage, loyalty and sacrifice. The obverse features an image of the legs and boots of three veterans. The inscription in the banner along the upper rim, THEY STOOD UP FOR US, pays tribute to our courageous disabled veterans who have survived military service injuries for our freedom. Additional inscriptions are IN GOD WE TRUST, 2010 and LIBERTY.

The reverse design depicts a forget-me-not flower at the base of a wreath wrapped in a ribbon that cradles and supports clusters of oak branches. The oak branches represent strength, while the forget-me-not is a widely recognized icon that first served as a reminder of those who fought and became disabled in World War I. The significance of the small blue flowers is attributable to an image conveyed by World War I soldiers who had seen them growing on the graves of comrades and allies who had been killed. After the war, the flower became the accepted symbol for commemorating those who had fallen. The inscriptions are Take This Moment to Honor Our Disabled Defenders of Freedom, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM and ONE DOLLAR.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2010 W DISABLED VETERANS

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

American Veterans Disabled for Life Commemorative Coin Act

Public Law 110–277 110th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of veterans who became disabled for life while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of the service of our disabled veterans who, having survived the ordeal of war, made enormous personal sacrifices defending the principles of our democracy.

• The Congress finds as follows:
 The Armed Forces of the United States have answered the call and served with distinction around the world—
from hitting the beaches in World War II in the Pacific and Europe, to the cold and difficult terrain in Korea, the
steamy jungles of Vietnam, and the desert sands of the Middle East.
 All Americans should commemorate those who come home having survived the ordeal of war, and solemnly
honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in giving their lives for their country.
 All Americans should honor the millions of living disabled veterans who carry the scars of war every day, and
who have made enormous personal sacrifices defending the principles of our democracy.
 In 2000, Congress authorized the construction of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial.
 The United States should pay tribute to the Nation’s living disabled veterans by minting and issuing a
commemorative silver dollar coin.
 The surcharge proceeds from the sale of a commemorative coin would raise valuable funding for the
construction of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial.

• Coin Specifications. $1 Silver Coins. The Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue not more than 350,000 $1
coins in commemoration of disabled American veterans, each of which shall be 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper.
• The coins authorized under this title may be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities and only 1 facility of the
United States Mint may be used to strike any particular combination of denomination and quality for the coins
minted under this Act.
• It is the sense of the Congress that the coins minted under this Act should be struck at the United States Mint at
West Point, New York, to the greatest extent possible.

Approved July 17, 2008. The Secretary may issue coins under this Act only during the calendar year beginning on January 1, 2010.

Americans owe a tremendous debt to those who gave so much of themselves for our country. These include the millions of disabled veterans who continue to live with the wounds and scars of military service; those who have died after living with those wounds and scars; and those who gave their lives while defending our principles of democracy.

The images on the 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar capture the service of the brave men and women who have honored us with their selfless duty to defend our country. These veterans often carry permanent life-altering disabilities that serve as strong reminders of the price of freedom.

The coin designs are emblematic of the many stories of our disabled veterans' courage, loyalty and sacrifice. The obverse features an image of the legs and boots of three veterans. The inscription in the banner along the upper rim, THEY STOOD UP FOR US, pays tribute to our courageous disabled veterans who have survived military service injuries for our freedom. Additional inscriptions are IN GOD WE TRUST, 2010 and LIBERTY.

The reverse design depicts a forget-me-not flower at the base of a wreath wrapped in a ribbon that cradles and supports clusters of oak branches. The oak branches represent strength, while the forget-me-not is a widely recognized icon that first served as a reminder of those who fought and became disabled in World War I. The significance of the small blue flowers is attributable to an image conveyed by World War I soldiers who had seen them growing on the graves of comrades and allies who had been killed. After the war, the flower became the accepted symbol for commemorating those who had fallen. The inscriptions are Take This Moment to Honor Our Disabled Defenders of Freedom, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM and ONE DOLLAR.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2011 P UNITED STATES ARMY

NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO

United States Army Commemorative Coin Act of 2008
Public Law 110–450 110th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the establishment of the United States Army in 1775, to honor the American soldier of both today and yesterday, in wartime and in peace, and to commemorate the traditions, history, and heritage of the United States Army and its role in American society, from the colonial period to today. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of the traditions, history, and heritage of the United States Army, and its role in American society from the colonial period to today.
• The Congress finds that
 the United States Army, founded in 1775, has served this country well for over 230 years;
 the United States Army has played a decisive role in protecting and defending freedom
throughout the history of the United States, from the Colonial period to today, in wartime and in
peace, and has consistently answered the call to serve the American people at home and abroad
since the Revolutionary War;
 the sacrifice of the American soldier, of all ranks, since the earliest days of the Republic has been
immense and is deserving of the unique recognition bestowed by commemorative coinage;
 the Army, the Nation’s oldest and largest military service, is the only service branch that currently
does not have a comprehensive national museum celebrating, preserving, and displaying its
heritage and honoring its veterans;
 the National Museum of the United States Army will be:
♦ the Army’s only service-wide, national museum honoring all soldiers, of all ranks, in all
branches since 1775; and
♦ located at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, across the Potomac River from the Nation’s Capitol, a 10-
minute drive from Mount Vernon, the home of the Army’s first Commander-in-Chief, and
astride the Civil War’s decisive Washington-Richmond corridor;
 the Army Historical Foundation (hereafter in this Act referred to as the ‘‘Foundation’’), founded in
1983
♦ is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the American soldier; and
♦ seeks to educate future Americans to fully appreciate the sacrifices that generations of
American soldiers have made to safeguard the freedoms of this Nation;
 the completion and opening to the public of the National Museum of the United States Army will
immeasurably help in fulfilling that mission;
 the Foundation is a nongovernmental, member-based, and publicly supported nonprofit
organization that is dependent on funds from members, donations, and grants for support;
 the Foundation uses such support to help create the National Museum of the United States Army,
refurbish historical Army buildings, acquire and conserve Army historical art and artifacts, support
Army history educational programs, for research, and publication of historical materials on the
American soldier, and to provide support and counsel to private and governmental organizations
committed to the same goals as the Foundation;
 in 2000, the Secretary of the Army designated the Foundation as its primary partner in the building
of the National Museum of the United States Army; and
 the Foundation is actively engaged in executing a major capital campaign to support the National
Museum of the United States Army.

• Coin Specifications.
 Denominations. In recognition and celebration of the founding of the United States Army in 1775,
and notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue
the following coins:
♦ $5 Gold Coins. Not more than 100,000 $5 coins and contain 90 percent gold and 10 percent
alloy. The Gold five-dollar proof is minted at West Point; the Gold five-dollar uncirculated is
minted at Philadelphia.
♦ $1 Silver Coins. Not more than 500,000 $1 coins and shall contain 90 percent silver and 10
percent copper. The silver dollar proof is minted at Philadelphia; the silver dollar uncirculated is
minted at San Francisco.
♦ Half Dollar Clad Coins. Not more than 750,000 half dollar coins contain an alloy of 75 percent
copper and 25 percent nickel. The silver dollar proof is minted at San Francisco; the silver
dollar uncirculated is minted at Denver.

• Coins minted under this Act shall be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities. For each of the 3 coins
minted under this Act, at least 1 facility of the United States Mint shall be used to strike proof quality
coins, while at least 1 other such facility shall be used to strike the uncirculated quality coins.

Approved: December 1, 2008.(The Secretary may issue coins minted under this Act only during the 1-year period beginning on January 1, 2011.)

Background
United States Army Commemorative Coin Program
Founded in 1775, the United States Army has served this country well for 236 years. It has played a decisive role in protecting and defending freedom throughout our history and has consistently answered the call to serve the American people at home and abroad since the Revolutionary War. More than 30 million American men and women have served in the U.S. Army since its founding.

The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to mint and issue $5 gold, $1 silver and half-dollar clad coins in recognition and celebration of the founding of the U.S. Army. As authorized, the United States Mint will produce gold, silver and clad coins in both proof and uncirculated qualities. The designs are emblematic of the traditions, history and heritage of the U.S. Army and its role in American society from the Colonial period to today.

Characteristics

Five Dollar Gold Coin
Obverse: This design represents the U.S. Army's war service from the Revolutionary War through today, symbolizing its continuity of strength and readiness. The design features, from left to right, Continental, Civil War, modern, World War II and World War I soldiers.
Reverse: This design is based on the official U.S. Army emblem and represents the unbroken history of loyalty and commitment to defend the Nation.

$1 Dollar Silver Coin
Obverse: This design depicts the busts of a male and female soldier, symbolizing worldwide deployment of the 21st century U.S. Army.
Reverse: This design symbolizes the seven core values of the U.S. Army. The design features an image of the Great Seal of the United States, worn on Army dress and service uniforms since the early 1800's.

Clad Half Dollar Coin
Obverse: This design represents significant contributions of the U.S. Army during peacetime and features a U.S. Army soldier surveying, two servicemen building a flood wall and a Redstone Army rocket used during early space exploration.
Reverse: This design symbolizes the U.S. Army as the first military service to defend the country and its key role in the Nation's internal development. It features an enlisted Continental soldier armed with a musket and 13 stars representing the original Colonies.

Recipient Organization: Army Historical Foundation
All surcharges received by the Secretary from the sale of coins issued under this Act shall be promptly paid by the Secretary to the Foundation to help finance the National Museum of the United States Army.

View Coin

United States

50C 2011 S UNITED STATES ARMY

NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO

2011 United States Army Commemorative Coin

Founded in 1775, the United States Army has served this country well for 236 years. It has played a decisive role in protecting and defending freedom throughout our history and has consistently answered the call to serve the American people at home and abroad since the Revolutionary War. More than 30 million American men and women have served in the U.S. Army since its founding.

Public Law 110-450, the "United States Army Commemorative Coin Act of 2008," was passed by Congress and signed into law by President George W. Bush on December 1, 2008. It authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue $5 gold, $1 silver and half-dollar clad coins in recognition and celebration of the founding of the U.S. Army. As authorized, the United States Mint will produce gold, silver and clad coins in both proof and uncirculated qualities. The act calls for the designs to be emblematic of the traditions, history and heritage of the U.S. Army and its role in American society from the Colonial period to today.

Surcharges in the amount of $35 for each gold coin, $10 for each silver coin and $5 for each clad coin sold are authorized to be paid to the Army Historical Foundation to support the construction of the National Museum of the United States Army at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
The Designs

Half-Dollar Clad Coin – "Service in Peace"

Obverse: This design represents significant contributions of the U.S. Army during peacetime and features a U.S. Army soldier surveying, two servicemen building a flood wall and a Redstone Army rocket used during early space exploration. Inscriptions are U.S. ARMY, SERVICE IN PEACE, IN GOD WE TRUST, 2011 and LIBERTY.

Reverse: This design symbolizes the U.S. Army as the first military service to defend the country and its key role in the Nation's internal development. It features an enlisted Continental soldier armed with a musket and 13 stars representing the original Colonies. Inscriptions are UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, FIRST IN SERVICE TO THE NATION, E PLURIBUS UNUM and HALF DOLLAR.

Coin Specifications:

Clad
DENOMINATION Half-Dollar
COMPOSITION 8.33% nickel, balance copper
DIAMETER 1.205 inches (±0.002) or 30.61 mm (±0.05)
WEIGHT 11.34 grams (±0.454)
EDGE reeded
MINTAGE LIMIT 750,000 (across all product options)

View Coin

United States

S$1 2011 S UNITED STATES ARMY

NGC MS 70

2011 United States Army Commemorative Coin

Founded in 1775, the United States Army has served this country well for 236 years. It has played a decisive role in protecting and defending freedom throughout our history and has consistently answered the call to serve the American people at home and abroad since the Revolutionary War. More than 30 million American men and women have served in the U.S. Army since its founding.

Public Law 110-450, the "United States Army Commemorative Coin Act of 2008," was passed by Congress and signed into law by President George W. Bush on December 1, 2008. It authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue $5 gold, $1 silver and half-dollar clad coins in recognition and celebration of the founding of the U.S. Army. As authorized, the United States Mint will produce gold, silver and clad coins in both proof and uncirculated qualities. The act calls for the designs to be emblematic of the traditions, history and heritage of the U.S. Army and its role in American society from the Colonial period to today.

Surcharges in the amount of $35 for each gold coin, $10 for each silver coin and $5 for each clad coin sold are authorized to be paid to the Army Historical Foundation to support the construction of the National Museum of the United States Army at Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
The Designs

$1 Silver Coin – "Modern Service"

Obverse: This design depicts the busts of a male and female soldier, symbolizing worldwide deployment of the 21st century U.S. Army. The inscriptions are LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST and 2011.

Reverse: This design symbolizes the seven core values of the U.S. Army. The design features an image of the Great Seal of the United States, worn on Army dress and service uniforms since the early 1800's. Inscriptions are UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, U.S. ARMY, ONE DOLLAR and the seven core values: LOYALTY, DUTY, RESPECT, SELFLESS SERVICE, HONOR, INTEGRITY and PERSONAL COURAGE.

Coin Specifications:

Silver

DENOMINATION One Dollar
COMPOSITION 90% silver, 10% copper
DIAMETER 1.500 inches (±0.003) or 38.10 mm (±0.08)
WEIGHT 26.730 grams nominal
EDGE reeded
MINTAGE LIMIT 500,000 (across all product options)

View Coin

United States

50C 2011 D UNITED STATES ARMY

NGC MS 69

United States Army Commemorative Coin Act of 2008
Public Law 110–450 110th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the establishment of the United States Army in 1775, to honor the American soldier of both today and yesterday, in wartime and in peace, and to commemorate the traditions, history, and heritage of the United States Army and its role in American society, from the colonial period to today. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of the traditions, history, and heritage of the United States Army, and its role in American society from the colonial period to today.
• The Congress finds that
 the United States Army, founded in 1775, has served this country well for over 230 years;
 the United States Army has played a decisive role in protecting and defending freedom
throughout the history of the United States, from the Colonial period to today, in wartime and in
peace, and has consistently answered the call to serve the American people at home and abroad
since the Revolutionary War;
 the sacrifice of the American soldier, of all ranks, since the earliest days of the Republic has been
immense and is deserving of the unique recognition bestowed by commemorative coinage;
 the Army, the Nation’s oldest and largest military service, is the only service branch that currently
does not have a comprehensive national museum celebrating, preserving, and displaying its
heritage and honoring its veterans;
 the National Museum of the United States Army will be:
♦ the Army’s only service-wide, national museum honoring all soldiers, of all ranks, in all
branches since 1775; and
♦ located at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, across the Potomac River from the Nation’s Capitol, a 10-
minute drive from Mount Vernon, the home of the Army’s first Commander-in-Chief, and
astride the Civil War’s decisive Washington-Richmond corridor;
 the Army Historical Foundation (hereafter in this Act referred to as the ‘‘Foundation’’), founded in
1983
♦ is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the American soldier; and
♦ seeks to educate future Americans to fully appreciate the sacrifices that generations of
American soldiers have made to safeguard the freedoms of this Nation;
 the completion and opening to the public of the National Museum of the United States Army will
immeasurably help in fulfilling that mission;
 the Foundation is a nongovernmental, member-based, and publicly supported nonprofit
organization that is dependent on funds from members, donations, and grants for support;
 the Foundation uses such support to help create the National Museum of the United States Army,
refurbish historical Army buildings, acquire and conserve Army historical art and artifacts, support
Army history educational programs, for research, and publication of historical materials on the
American soldier, and to provide support and counsel to private and governmental organizations
committed to the same goals as the Foundation;
 in 2000, the Secretary of the Army designated the Foundation as its primary partner in the building
of the National Museum of the United States Army; and
 the Foundation is actively engaged in executing a major capital campaign to support the National
Museum of the United States Army.

• Coin Specifications.
 Denominations. In recognition and celebration of the founding of the United States Army in 1775,
and notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue
the following coins:
♦ $5 Gold Coins. Not more than 100,000 $5 coins and contain 90 percent gold and 10 percent
alloy. The Gold five-dollar proof is minted at West Point; the Gold five-dollar uncirculated is
minted at Philadelphia.
♦ $1 Silver Coins. Not more than 500,000 $1 coins and shall contain 90 percent silver and 10
percent copper. The silver dollar proof is minted at Philadelphia; the silver dollar uncirculated is
minted at San Francisco.
♦ Half Dollar Clad Coins. Not more than 750,000 half dollar coins contain an alloy of 75 percent
copper and 25 percent nickel. The silver dollar proof is minted at San Francisco; the silver
dollar uncirculated is minted at Denver.

• Coins minted under this Act shall be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities. For each of the 3 coins
minted under this Act, at least 1 facility of the United States Mint shall be used to strike proof quality
coins, while at least 1 other such facility shall be used to strike the uncirculated quality coins.

Approved: December 1, 2008.(The Secretary may issue coins minted under this Act only during the 1-year period beginning on January 1, 2011.)

Background
United States Army Commemorative Coin Program
Founded in 1775, the United States Army has served this country well for 236 years. It has played a decisive role in protecting and defending freedom throughout our history and has consistently answered the call to serve the American people at home and abroad since the Revolutionary War. More than 30 million American men and women have served in the U.S. Army since its founding.

The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to mint and issue $5 gold, $1 silver and half-dollar clad coins in recognition and celebration of the founding of the U.S. Army. As authorized, the United States Mint will produce gold, silver and clad coins in both proof and uncirculated qualities. The designs are emblematic of the traditions, history and heritage of the U.S. Army and its role in American society from the Colonial period to today.

Characteristics

Five Dollar Gold Coin
Obverse: This design represents the U.S. Army's war service from the Revolutionary War through today, symbolizing its continuity of strength and readiness. The design features, from left to right, Continental, Civil War, modern, World War II and World War I soldiers.
Reverse: This design is based on the official U.S. Army emblem and represents the unbroken history of loyalty and commitment to defend the Nation.

$1 Dollar Silver Coin
Obverse: This design depicts the busts of a male and female soldier, symbolizing worldwide deployment of the 21st century U.S. Army.
Reverse: This design symbolizes the seven core values of the U.S. Army. The design features an image of the Great Seal of the United States, worn on Army dress and service uniforms since the early 1800's.

Clad Half Dollar Coin
Obverse: This design represents significant contributions of the U.S. Army during peacetime and features a U.S. Army soldier surveying, two servicemen building a flood wall and a Redstone Army rocket used during early space exploration.
Reverse: This design symbolizes the U.S. Army as the first military service to defend the country and its key role in the Nation's internal development. It features an enlisted Continental soldier armed with a musket and 13 stars representing the original Colonies.

Recipient Organization: Army Historical Foundation
All surcharges received by the Secretary from the sale of coins issued under this Act shall be promptly paid by the Secretary to the Foundation to help finance the National Museum of the United States Army.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2011 P MEDAL OF HONOR

NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO

Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Act of 2009
Public Law 111–91 111th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the establishment of the Medal of Honor in 1861, America’s highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States, to honor the American military men and women who have been recipients of the Medal of Honor, and to promote awareness of what the Medal of Honor represents and how ordinary Americans, through courage, sacrifice, selfless service and patriotism, can challenge fate and change the course of history. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of the traditions, legacy, and heritage of the Medal of Honor, and the distinguished service of its recipients in the Nation’s history.
• The Congress finds as follows:
 1861 as the United States Navy’s highest personal decoration, the Army Medal of Honor was
authorized by the Congress in 1862, and the Air Force Medal of Honor was authorized by Congress
in 1956.
 The Medal of Honor is presented by the President of the United States in the name of the
Congress, to a person who, while a member of the United States Armed Forces, distinguishes
himself or herself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life above and
beyond the call of duty while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States; while
engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or while serving with
friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the
United States is not a belligerent party.
 The deed performed must have been one of personal bravery or self-sacrifice so conspicuous as to
clearly distinguish the individual above his or her comrades and must have involved risk of life.
 Incontestable proof of the performance of the service will be exacted and each recommendation for
the award of this decoration will be considered on the standard of extraordinary merit.
 Fewer than 3,500 Medals of Honor have been awarded to members of the United States Armed
Forces.
 The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is a not-for-profit organization chartered by the 85th
Congress under a legislative act signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on August 14,
1958, and membership in the Society is restricted to recipients of the Medal of Honor.
 Society members are joined together for the purpose of forming and maintaining friendship among
all living recipients of the Medal of Honor and remembrance of posthumous and deceased
recipients.; they are dedicated to the protection and preservation of the dignity, honor and name of
the Medal of Honor; service to others; service to Nation; and the promotion of allegiance to the
Constitution and the Government of the United States.
 Members of the Society act to foster patriotism and to inspire and encourage the youth of America
to become worthy citizens.
 The Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization founded by
the Society in 1999, is dedicated to —
♦ perpetuating the Medal of Honor’s legacy through outreach and collaborative efforts;
♦ raising funds for initiatives that promote what the Medal of Honor represents, operation of the
Congressional Medal of Honor Society headquarters, and the public outreach activities of the
Medal of Honor Society’s membership; and
♦ promoting American values and the qualities of courage, sacrifice and patriotism through i
increased awareness, education, scholarships, behavior and example.
 Through its educational and outreach programs, the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation
promotes heroism, selflessness and distinguished citizenship among American youth and brings
public awareness to the actions of ordinary Americans who have made and are making a profound
difference in preserving our freedoms.

• Coin Specifications.
 Denominations.—In recognition and celebration of the founding of the Medal of Honor in 1861, and
notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue the
following coins:
♦ $5 Gold Coins. Not more than 100,000 $5 gold coins, which shall contain 90 percent gold and
10 percent alloy.
♦ $1 Silver Coins. Not more than 500,000 $1 coins which shall contain 90 percent silver and 10
percent copper.

• Design Of Coins - Selection.—The design for the coins minted under this Act shall:
 contain motifs that represent the 3 Medal of Honor designs (Army, Navy, and Air Force) and
specifically honor the Medal of Honor recipients of both today and yesterday, such designs to be
consistent with the traditions and heritage of the United States Armed Services, the mission and
goals of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, and the mission and goals of the Congressional
Medal of Honor Foundation.
 be selected by the Secretary, after consultation with the Boards of the Congressional Medal of
Honor Society and Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation and the Commission of Fine Arts;
and
 be reviewed by the Citizens Coin Advisory Committee.

• Coins minted under this Act shall be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities. For each of the 2
denomination of coins minted under this Act, at least 1 facility of the United States Mint shall be used to
strike proof quality coins, while at least 1 other such facility shall be used to strike the uncirculated
quality coins.
Approved November 6, 2009. (The Secretary of the Treasury may issue coins minted under this Act only during the 1-year period beginning on January 1, 2011.)

Background

The U.S. Mint released the Medal of Honor $5 Gold Coin in 2011 as part of the Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Program. The two-coin program recognizes and celebrates the establishment of the Medal of Honor in 1861. The gold coin designs are emblematic of the heritage and legacy of the original Medal of Honor and the era in which it was first established.

The 2011 Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Program recognizes and celebrates the establishment of the Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force that can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is presented to a person who distinguishes him or herself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life above and beyond the call of duty while:

• engaged in action against an enemy of the United States;
• engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
• serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the
United States is not a belligerent party.

Fewer than 3,600 Medals of Honor have ever been awarded.

The Medal of Honor was first authorized by Congress in 1861 as the Navy’s highest personal decoration, with the Army Medal of Honor authorized in 1862 and the Air Force Medal of Honor in 1956. The medals are presented by the President in the name of Congress.

As authorized, the Mint produced $5 gold and $1 silver coins in both proof and uncirculated qualities. The designs are emblematic of the traditions, legacy, and heritage of the Medal of Honor and the distinguished service of its recipients.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2011 S MEDAL OF HONOR

NGC MS 70

Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Act of 2009
Public Law 111–91 111th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition and celebration of the establishment of the Medal of Honor in 1861, America’s highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States, to honor the American military men and women who have been recipients of the Medal of Honor, and to promote awareness of what the Medal of Honor represents and how ordinary Americans, through courage, sacrifice, selfless service and patriotism, can challenge fate and change the course of history. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of the traditions, legacy, and heritage of the Medal of Honor, and the distinguished service of its recipients in the Nation’s history.
• The Congress finds as follows:
 1861 as the United States Navy’s highest personal decoration, the Army Medal of Honor was
authorized by the Congress in 1862, and the Air Force Medal of Honor was authorized by Congress
in 1956.
 The Medal of Honor is presented by the President of the United States in the name of the
Congress, to a person who, while a member of the United States Armed Forces, distinguishes
himself or herself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life above and
beyond the call of duty while engaged in action against an enemy of the United States; while
engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or while serving with
friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the
United States is not a belligerent party.
 The deed performed must have been one of personal bravery or self-sacrifice so conspicuous as to
clearly distinguish the individual above his or her comrades and must have involved risk of life.
 Incontestable proof of the performance of the service will be exacted and each recommendation for
the award of this decoration will be considered on the standard of extraordinary merit.
 Fewer than 3,500 Medals of Honor have been awarded to members of the United States Armed
Forces.
 The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is a not-for-profit organization chartered by the 85th
Congress under a legislative act signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on August 14,
1958, and membership in the Society is restricted to recipients of the Medal of Honor.
 Society members are joined together for the purpose of forming and maintaining friendship among
all living recipients of the Medal of Honor and remembrance of posthumous and deceased
recipients.; they are dedicated to the protection and preservation of the dignity, honor and name of
the Medal of Honor; service to others; service to Nation; and the promotion of allegiance to the
Constitution and the Government of the United States.
 Members of the Society act to foster patriotism and to inspire and encourage the youth of America
to become worthy citizens.
 The Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization founded by
the Society in 1999, is dedicated to —
♦ perpetuating the Medal of Honor’s legacy through outreach and collaborative efforts;
♦ raising funds for initiatives that promote what the Medal of Honor represents, operation of the
Congressional Medal of Honor Society headquarters, and the public outreach activities of the
Medal of Honor Society’s membership; and
♦ promoting American values and the qualities of courage, sacrifice and patriotism through i
increased awareness, education, scholarships, behavior and example.
 Through its educational and outreach programs, the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation
promotes heroism, selflessness and distinguished citizenship among American youth and brings
public awareness to the actions of ordinary Americans who have made and are making a profound
difference in preserving our freedoms.

• Coin Specifications.
 Denominations.—In recognition and celebration of the founding of the Medal of Honor in 1861, and
notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue the
following coins:
♦ $5 Gold Coins. Not more than 100,000 $5 gold coins, which shall contain 90 percent gold and
10 percent alloy.
♦ $1 Silver Coins. Not more than 500,000 $1 coins which shall contain 90 percent silver and 10
percent copper.

• Design Of Coins - Selection.—The design for the coins minted under this Act shall:
 contain motifs that represent the 3 Medal of Honor designs (Army, Navy, and Air Force) and
specifically honor the Medal of Honor recipients of both today and yesterday, such designs to be
consistent with the traditions and heritage of the United States Armed Services, the mission and
goals of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, and the mission and goals of the Congressional
Medal of Honor Foundation.
 be selected by the Secretary, after consultation with the Boards of the Congressional Medal of
Honor Society and Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation and the Commission of Fine Arts;
and
 be reviewed by the Citizens Coin Advisory Committee.

• Coins minted under this Act shall be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities. For each of the 2
denomination of coins minted under this Act, at least 1 facility of the United States Mint shall be used to
strike proof quality coins, while at least 1 other such facility shall be used to strike the uncirculated
quality coins.
Approved November 6, 2009. (The Secretary of the Treasury may issue coins minted under this Act only during the 1-year period beginning on January 1, 2011.)

Background

The U.S. Mint released the Medal of Honor $5 Gold Coin in 2011 as part of the Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Program. The two-coin program recognizes and celebrates the establishment of the Medal of Honor in 1861. The gold coin designs are emblematic of the heritage and legacy of the original Medal of Honor and the era in which it was first established.

The 2011 Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Program recognizes and celebrates the establishment of the Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force that can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is presented to a person who distinguishes him or herself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his or her life above and beyond the call of duty while:

• engaged in action against an enemy of the United States;
• engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
• serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the
United States is not a belligerent party.

Fewer than 3,600 Medals of Honor have ever been awarded.

The Medal of Honor was first authorized by Congress in 1861 as the Navy’s highest personal decoration, with the Army Medal of Honor authorized in 1862 and the Air Force Medal of Honor in 1956. The medals are presented by the President in the name of Congress.

As authorized, the Mint produced $5 gold and $1 silver coins in both proof and uncirculated qualities. The designs are emblematic of the traditions, legacy, and heritage of the Medal of Honor and the distinguished service of its recipients.

View Coin

United States

25C 2011 S CLAD GETTYSBURG

NGC PF 70 ULTRA CAMEO

The Gettysburg National Military Park Quarter

The Gettysburg National Military Park quarter is the first to be released in 2011, and the sixth overall in the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program. The Battle of Gettysburg, the Union victory in the summer of 1863 that ended General Robert E. Lee's second and most ambitious invasion of the North, was a turning point in the Civil War. Often referred to as the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion," it was among the war's bloodiest battles, with 51,000 casualties. It also provided President Abraham Lincoln with the setting for his most famous address. It was the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association, a group of concerned citizens, that first set out in 1864 to preserve the battlefield as a memorial to the Union troops who fought there. The park is well-known for its many monuments and memorials, the majority of which were placed by veterans of the battle. On February 11, 1895, the battlefield was transferred to the federal government as Gettysburg National Military Park (28 Stat. 651).

The reverse image depicts the 72nd Pennsylvania Infantry Monument, which is located on the battle line of the Union Army at Cemetery Ridge. Inscriptions are GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA, 2011 and E PLURIBUS UNUM. Design candidates were developed in representatives of Gettysburg National Military Park.

The series features the 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original model, on the obverse. The reverse depicts the 72nd Pennsylvania Infantry Monument, which is located on the battle line of the Union Army at Cemetery Ridge.

These striking numismatic collectibles are produced with an uncirculated finish and display a "P" mint mark for the United States Mint at Philadelphia, where they are struck. The coins are encapsulated, set in a protective outer box, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. These coins are produced in limited quantities and demand will be great.

The Battle of Gettysburg was fought July 1–3, 1863, in and around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The battle with the largest number of casualties in the American Civil War, it is often described as the war's turning point. Union Maj. Gen. George Gordon Meade's Army of the Potomac defeated attacks by Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia, ending Lee's invasion of the North.

After his success at Chancellorsville in Virginia in May 1863, Lee led his army through the Shenandoah Valley to begin his second invasion of the North—the Gettysburg Campaign. With his army in high spirits, Lee intended to shift the focus of the summer campaign from war-ravaged northern Virginia and hoped to influence Northern politicians to give up their prosecution of the war by penetrating as far as Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, or even Philadelphia. Prodded by President Abraham Lincoln, Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker moved his army in pursuit, but was relieved just three days before the battle and replaced by Meade.

Elements of the two armies initially collided at Gettysburg on July 1, 1863, as Lee urgently concentrated his forces there, his objective being to engage the Union army and destroy it. Low ridges to the northwest of town were defended initially by a Union cavalry division under Brig. Gen. John Buford, and soon reinforced with two corps of Union infantry. However, two large Confederate corps assaulted them from the northwest and north, collapsing the hastily developed Union lines, sending the defenders retreating through the streets of town to the hills just to the south.

On the second day of battle, most of both armies had assembled. The Union line was laid out in a defensive formation resembling a fishhook. In the late afternoon of July 2, Lee launched a heavy assault on the Union left flank, and fierce fighting raged at Little Round Top, the Wheatfield, Devil's Den, and the Peach Orchard. On the Union right, demonstrations escalated into full-scale assaults on Culp's Hill and Cemetery Hill. All across the battlefield, despite significant losses, the Union defenders held their lines.

On the third day of battle, July 3, fighting resumed on Culp's Hill, and cavalry battles raged to the east and south, but the main event was a dramatic infantry assault by 12,500 Confederates against the center of the Union line on Cemetery Ridge, known as Pickett's Charge. The charge was repulsed by Union rifle and artillery fire, at great losses to the Confederate army. Lee led his army on a torturous retreat back to Virginia. Between 46,000 and 51,000 soldiers from both armies were casualties in the three-day battle. That November, President Lincoln used the dedication ceremony for the Gettysburg National Cemetery to honor the fallen Union soldiers and redefine the purpose of the war in his historic Gettysburg Address.

View Coin

United States

25C 2011 P GETTYSBURG

NGC MS 65

The Gettysburg National Military Park Quarter

The Gettysburg National Military Park quarter is the first to be released in 2011, and the sixth overall in the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program. The Battle of Gettysburg, the Union victory in the summer of 1863 that ended General Robert E. Lee's second and most ambitious invasion of the North, was a turning point in the Civil War. Often referred to as the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion," it was among the war's bloodiest battles, with 51,000 casualties. It also provided President Abraham Lincoln with the setting for his most famous address. It was the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association, a group of concerned citizens, that first set out in 1864 to preserve the battlefield as a memorial to the Union troops who fought there. The park is well-known for its many monuments and memorials, the majority of which were placed by veterans of the battle. On February 11, 1895, the battlefield was transferred to the federal government as Gettysburg National Military Park (28 Stat. 651).

The reverse image depicts the 72nd Pennsylvania Infantry Monument, which is located on the battle line of the Union Army at Cemetery Ridge. Inscriptions are GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA, 2011 and E PLURIBUS UNUM. Design candidates were developed in representatives of Gettysburg National Military Park.

The series features the 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original model, on the obverse. The reverse depicts the 72nd Pennsylvania Infantry Monument, which is located on the battle line of the Union Army at Cemetery Ridge.

These striking numismatic collectibles are produced with an uncirculated finish and display a "P" mint mark for the United States Mint at Philadelphia, where they are struck. The coins are encapsulated, set in a protective outer box, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. These coins are produced in limited quantities and demand will be great.

The Battle of Gettysburg was fought July 1–3, 1863, in and around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The battle with the largest number of casualties in the American Civil War, it is often described as the war's turning point. Union Maj. Gen. George Gordon Meade's Army of the Potomac defeated attacks by Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia, ending Lee's invasion of the North.

After his success at Chancellorsville in Virginia in May 1863, Lee led his army through the Shenandoah Valley to begin his second invasion of the North—the Gettysburg Campaign. With his army in high spirits, Lee intended to shift the focus of the summer campaign from war-ravaged northern Virginia and hoped to influence Northern politicians to give up their prosecution of the war by penetrating as far as Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, or even Philadelphia. Prodded by President Abraham Lincoln, Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker moved his army in pursuit, but was relieved just three days before the battle and replaced by Meade.

Elements of the two armies initially collided at Gettysburg on July 1, 1863, as Lee urgently concentrated his forces there, his objective being to engage the Union army and destroy it. Low ridges to the northwest of town were defended initially by a Union cavalry division under Brig. Gen. John Buford, and soon reinforced with two corps of Union infantry. However, two large Confederate corps assaulted them from the northwest and north, collapsing the hastily developed Union lines, sending the defenders retreating through the streets of town to the hills just to the south.

On the second day of battle, most of both armies had assembled. The Union line was laid out in a defensive formation resembling a fishhook. In the late afternoon of July 2, Lee launched a heavy assault on the Union left flank, and fierce fighting raged at Little Round Top, the Wheatfield, Devil's Den, and the Peach Orchard. On the Union right, demonstrations escalated into full-scale assaults on Culp's Hill and Cemetery Hill. All across the battlefield, despite significant losses, the Union defenders held their lines.

On the third day of battle, July 3, fighting resumed on Culp's Hill, and cavalry battles raged to the east and south, but the main event was a dramatic infantry assault by 12,500 Confederates against the center of the Union line on Cemetery Ridge, known as Pickett's Charge. The charge was repulsed by Union rifle and artillery fire, at great losses to the Confederate army. Lee led his army on a torturous retreat back to Virginia. Between 46,000 and 51,000 soldiers from both armies were casualties in the three-day battle. That November, President Lincoln used the dedication ceremony for the Gettysburg National Cemetery to honor the fallen Union soldiers and redefine the purpose of the war in his historic Gettysburg Address.

View Coin

United States

25C 2011 D GETTYSBURG

NGC MS 65

The Gettysburg National Military Park Quarter

The Gettysburg National Military Park quarter is the first to be released in 2011, and the sixth overall in the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program. The Battle of Gettysburg, the Union victory in the summer of 1863 that ended General Robert E. Lee's second and most ambitious invasion of the North, was a turning point in the Civil War. Often referred to as the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion," it was among the war's bloodiest battles, with 51,000 casualties. It also provided President Abraham Lincoln with the setting for his most famous address. It was the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association, a group of concerned citizens, that first set out in 1864 to preserve the battlefield as a memorial to the Union troops who fought there. The park is well-known for its many monuments and memorials, the majority of which were placed by veterans of the battle. On February 11, 1895, the battlefield was transferred to the federal government as Gettysburg National Military Park (28 Stat. 651).

The reverse image depicts the 72nd Pennsylvania Infantry Monument, which is located on the battle line of the Union Army at Cemetery Ridge. Inscriptions are GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA, 2011 and E PLURIBUS UNUM. Design candidates were developed in representatives of Gettysburg National Military Park.

The series features the 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original model, on the obverse. The reverse depicts the 72nd Pennsylvania Infantry Monument, which is located on the battle line of the Union Army at Cemetery Ridge.

These striking numismatic collectibles are produced with an uncirculated finish and display a "P" mint mark for the United States Mint at Philadelphia, where they are struck. The coins are encapsulated, set in a protective outer box, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. These coins are produced in limited quantities and demand will be great.

The Battle of Gettysburg was fought July 1–3, 1863, in and around the town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The battle with the largest number of casualties in the American Civil War, it is often described as the war's turning point. Union Maj. Gen. George Gordon Meade's Army of the Potomac defeated attacks by Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia, ending Lee's invasion of the North.

After his success at Chancellorsville in Virginia in May 1863, Lee led his army through the Shenandoah Valley to begin his second invasion of the North—the Gettysburg Campaign. With his army in high spirits, Lee intended to shift the focus of the summer campaign from war-ravaged northern Virginia and hoped to influence Northern politicians to give up their prosecution of the war by penetrating as far as Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, or even Philadelphia. Prodded by President Abraham Lincoln, Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker moved his army in pursuit, but was relieved just three days before the battle and replaced by Meade.

Elements of the two armies initially collided at Gettysburg on July 1, 1863, as Lee urgently concentrated his forces there, his objective being to engage the Union army and destroy it. Low ridges to the northwest of town were defended initially by a Union cavalry division under Brig. Gen. John Buford, and soon reinforced with two corps of Union infantry. However, two large Confederate corps assaulted them from the northwest and north, collapsing the hastily developed Union lines, sending the defenders retreating through the streets of town to the hills just to the south.

On the second day of battle, most of both armies had assembled. The Union line was laid out in a defensive formation resembling a fishhook. In the late afternoon of July 2, Lee launched a heavy assault on the Union left flank, and fierce fighting raged at Little Round Top, the Wheatfield, Devil's Den, and the Peach Orchard. On the Union right, demonstrations escalated into full-scale assaults on Culp's Hill and Cemetery Hill. All across the battlefield, despite significant losses, the Union defenders held their lines.

On the third day of battle, July 3, fighting resumed on Culp's Hill, and cavalry battles raged to the east and south, but the main event was a dramatic infantry assault by 12,500 Confederates against the center of the Union line on Cemetery Ridge, known as Pickett's Charge. The charge was repulsed by Union rifle and artillery fire, at great losses to the Confederate army. Lee led his army on a torturous retreat back to Virginia. Between 46,000 and 51,000 soldiers from both armies were casualties in the three-day battle. That November, President Lincoln used the dedication ceremony for the Gettysburg National Cemetery to honor the fallen Union soldiers and redefine the purpose of the war in his historic Gettysburg Address.

View Coin

United States

25C 2011 S CLAD VICKSBURG

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

Vicksburg

This coin, featuring an image of Vicksburg National Military Park, is the fourth coin released in the 2011 America the Beautiful Five Ounce Silver Uncirculated Coin Series. These coins are legal tender and have a nominal face value of 25 cents. Their fineness and weight are edge-incused on the coins.

The series features the 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original model, on the obverse. The reverse depicts the U.S.S. Cairo on the Yazoo River as it would have been seen when it served the U.S. Navy during the Civil War.

These striking numismatic collectibles are produced with an uncirculated finish and display a "P" mint mark for the United States Mint at Philadelphia, where they are struck. The coins are encapsulated, set in a protective outer box, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. These coins are produced in limited quantities.

The Vicksburg National Military Park Quarter

The Vicksburg National Military Park quarter is the fourth released in 2011 and the ninth overall in the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program. The park commemorates one of the pivotal battles of the Civil War — the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg, Miss. Surrender on July 4, 1863, coupled with the fall of Port Hudson, La., split the South, giving control of the Mississippi River to the North. The museum exhibits at the park depict the hardships of civilians and soldiers during the devastating 47-day siege of the city. More than 1,350 monuments, a national cemetery and the restored Union ironclad gunboat, the U.S.S. Cairo, mark the 16-mile tour road. The U.S.S. Cairo was the first warship sunk by an electronically detonated "torpedo," which ushered in a new age of naval warfare. Vicksburg was first established as a national site on February 21, 1899 (30 Stat. 841).

The reverse image depicts the U.S.S. Cairo on the Yazoo River as it would have been seen when it served the U.S. Navy during the Civil War. Inscriptions are VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI, 2011 and E PLURIBUS UNUM.
The Siege of Vicksburg (May 18 – July 4, 1863) was the final major military action in the Vicksburg Campaign of the American Civil War. In a series of maneuvers, Union Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant and his Army of the Tennessee crossed the Mississippi River and drove the Confederate army of Lt. Gen. John C. Pemberton into the defensive lines surrounding the fortress city of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

When two major assaults (May 19 and May 22, 1863) against the Confederate fortifications were repulsed with heavy casualties, Grant decided to besiege the city beginning on May 25. With no reinforcement, supplies nearly gone, and after holding out for more than forty days, the garrison finally surrendered on July 4. This action (combined with the capitulation of Port Hudson on July 9) yielded command of the Mississippi River to the Union forces, who would hold it for the rest of the conflict.

The Confederate surrender following the siege at Vicksburg is sometimes considered, when combined with Gen. Robert E. Lee's defeat at Gettysburg the previous day, the turning point of the war. It also cut off communication with Confederate forces in the Trans-Mississippi Department for the remainder of the war. The city of Vicksburg would not celebrate Independence Day for about eighty years as a result of the siege and surrender.

View Coin

United States

25C 2011 P VICKSBURG

NGC MS 66

Vicksburg

This coin, featuring an image of Vicksburg National Military Park, is the fourth coin released in the 2011 America the Beautiful Five Ounce Silver Uncirculated Coin Series. These coins are legal tender and have a nominal face value of 25 cents. Their fineness and weight are edge-incused on the coins.

The series features the 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original model, on the obverse. The reverse depicts the U.S.S. Cairo on the Yazoo River as it would have been seen when it served the U.S. Navy during the Civil War.

These striking numismatic collectibles are produced with an uncirculated finish and display a "P" mint mark for the United States Mint at Philadelphia, where they are struck. The coins are encapsulated, set in a protective outer box, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. These coins are produced in limited quantities.

The Vicksburg National Military Park Quarter

The Vicksburg National Military Park quarter is the fourth released in 2011 and the ninth overall in the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program. The park commemorates one of the pivotal battles of the Civil War — the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg, Miss. Surrender on July 4, 1863, coupled with the fall of Port Hudson, La., split the South, giving control of the Mississippi River to the North. The museum exhibits at the park depict the hardships of civilians and soldiers during the devastating 47-day siege of the city. More than 1,350 monuments, a national cemetery and the restored Union ironclad gunboat, the U.S.S. Cairo, mark the 16-mile tour road. The U.S.S. Cairo was the first warship sunk by an electronically detonated "torpedo," which ushered in a new age of naval warfare. Vicksburg was first established as a national site on February 21, 1899 (30 Stat. 841).

The reverse image depicts the U.S.S. Cairo on the Yazoo River as it would have been seen when it served the U.S. Navy during the Civil War. Inscriptions are VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI, 2011 and E PLURIBUS UNUM.
The Siege of Vicksburg (May 18 – July 4, 1863) was the final major military action in the Vicksburg Campaign of the American Civil War. In a series of maneuvers, Union Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant and his Army of the Tennessee crossed the Mississippi River and drove the Confederate army of Lt. Gen. John C. Pemberton into the defensive lines surrounding the fortress city of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

When two major assaults (May 19 and May 22, 1863) against the Confederate fortifications were repulsed with heavy casualties, Grant decided to besiege the city beginning on May 25. With no reinforcement, supplies nearly gone, and after holding out for more than forty days, the garrison finally surrendered on July 4. This action (combined with the capitulation of Port Hudson on July 9) yielded command of the Mississippi River to the Union forces, who would hold it for the rest of the conflict.

The Confederate surrender following the siege at Vicksburg is sometimes considered, when combined with Gen. Robert E. Lee's defeat at Gettysburg the previous day, the turning point of the war. It also cut off communication with Confederate forces in the Trans-Mississippi Department for the remainder of the war. The city of Vicksburg would not celebrate Independence Day for about eighty years as a result of the siege and surrender.

View Coin

United States

25C 2011 D VICKSBURG

NGC MS 65

Vicksburg

This coin, featuring an image of Vicksburg National Military Park, is the fourth coin released in the 2011 America the Beautiful Five Ounce Silver Uncirculated Coin Series. These coins are legal tender and have a nominal face value of 25 cents. Their fineness and weight are edge-incused on the coins.

The series features the 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan, restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original model, on the obverse. The reverse depicts the U.S.S. Cairo on the Yazoo River as it would have been seen when it served the U.S. Navy during the Civil War.

These striking numismatic collectibles are produced with an uncirculated finish and display a "P" mint mark for the United States Mint at Philadelphia, where they are struck. The coins are encapsulated, set in a protective outer box, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. These coins are produced in limited quantities.

The Vicksburg National Military Park Quarter

The Vicksburg National Military Park quarter is the fourth released in 2011 and the ninth overall in the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program. The park commemorates one of the pivotal battles of the Civil War — the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg, Miss. Surrender on July 4, 1863, coupled with the fall of Port Hudson, La., split the South, giving control of the Mississippi River to the North. The museum exhibits at the park depict the hardships of civilians and soldiers during the devastating 47-day siege of the city. More than 1,350 monuments, a national cemetery and the restored Union ironclad gunboat, the U.S.S. Cairo, mark the 16-mile tour road. The U.S.S. Cairo was the first warship sunk by an electronically detonated "torpedo," which ushered in a new age of naval warfare. Vicksburg was first established as a national site on February 21, 1899 (30 Stat. 841).

The reverse image depicts the U.S.S. Cairo on the Yazoo River as it would have been seen when it served the U.S. Navy during the Civil War. Inscriptions are VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI, 2011 and E PLURIBUS UNUM.
The Siege of Vicksburg (May 18 – July 4, 1863) was the final major military action in the Vicksburg Campaign of the American Civil War. In a series of maneuvers, Union Maj. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant and his Army of the Tennessee crossed the Mississippi River and drove the Confederate army of Lt. Gen. John C. Pemberton into the defensive lines surrounding the fortress city of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

When two major assaults (May 19 and May 22, 1863) against the Confederate fortifications were repulsed with heavy casualties, Grant decided to besiege the city beginning on May 25. With no reinforcement, supplies nearly gone, and after holding out for more than forty days, the garrison finally surrendered on July 4. This action (combined with the capitulation of Port Hudson on July 9) yielded command of the Mississippi River to the Union forces, who would hold it for the rest of the conflict.

The Confederate surrender following the siege at Vicksburg is sometimes considered, when combined with Gen. Robert E. Lee's defeat at Gettysburg the previous day, the turning point of the war. It also cut off communication with Confederate forces in the Trans-Mississippi Department for the remainder of the war. The city of Vicksburg would not celebrate Independence Day for about eighty years as a result of the siege and surrender.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2012 W INFANTRY SOLDIER EARLY RELEASES

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

2012 National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center Commemorative Coin Act
Public Law 110–357 110th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in
commemoration of the legacy of the United States Army Infantry and the establishment of the National
Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of
the courage, pride, sacrifice, sense of duty, and history of the United States Infantry.

• Coin Specifications.
 $1 Silver Coins. The Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue not more than 350,000 $1
coins in commemoration of the legacy of the United State Army Infantry and the establishment of
the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center and contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper.
• Coins minted under this Act shall be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities. Only one facility of the
United States Mint may be used to strike any particular quality of the coins minted under this Act.
• It is the sense of the Congress that the coins minted under this Act should be struck at the United
States Mint at West Point, New York, to the greatest extent possible.
Approved October 8, 2008. (The Secretary may issue coins under this Act only during the calendar year beginning on January 1, 2012.)

2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar

The U.S. Army Infantry

On June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress authorized the formation of 10 companies of light infantry, creating the first elements of what we now know as the U.S. Armed Forces. From the beginning, the Infantry has borne the brunt of sacrifice for securing and protecting the freedoms of this Nation, our friends and allies. It is the "boots on the ground," armed with both rifle and bayonet, and owns the last 100 yards of the battlefield. The Infantry's seven values mirror the Army's: honor, integrity, duty, selfless service, personal courage, loyalty and respect.

While only one branch of the Army, it has accounted for more than half of all the Medals of Honor awarded. Members of the Infantry have suffered approximately 75 percent of the casualties in our Nation's wars. Fifteen U.S. Presidents, including Andrew Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight Eisenhower, served in the Infantry, all of whom saw combat action. Infantrymen have been called upon to fight all over the world in every sort of weather, over every kind of terrain and in every diverse culture.

The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center tells the Infantry's story and preserves its legacy.
National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center Commemorative Coin Act.

The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center Commemorative Coin Act (Public Law 110-357) signed into law on October 8, 2008, requires the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue up to 350,000 silver dollar coins in commemoration of the legacy of the U.S. Army Infantry and the establishment of the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. The coin designs are emblematic of the courage, pride, sacrifice, sense of duty and history of the Infantry. As authorized, the United States Mint is producing 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar coins in proof and uncirculated qualities. Surcharges from this commemorative coin program are authorized to be paid to the National Infantry Foundation.

Coin Designs

The obverse (heads side) design of the 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar features a modern Infantry soldier on rocky ground charging forward and beckoning the troops to follow, symbolizing the "Follow Me" motto of the Infantry. Inscriptions are LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST and 2012. The representation of the contemporary soldier captures the essence of the Infantry's motto.

The reverse (tails) design features the crossed rifles insignia, the branch insignia of the Infantry. Inscriptions are UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ONE DOLLAR and E PLURIBUS UNUM. The insignia is a universally recognizable symbol of the Infantry, as all members wear it.

Both 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar designs were approved by the Department of the Treasury on July 19, 2011, at the recommendation of the United States Mint, after consultation with the National Infantry Foundation and the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, as well as review by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2012 W INFANTRY SOLDIER EARLY RELEASES

NGC MS 70

2012 National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center Commemorative Coin Act
Public Law 110–357 110th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in
commemoration of the legacy of the United States Army Infantry and the establishment of the National
Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of
the courage, pride, sacrifice, sense of duty, and history of the United States Infantry.

• Coin Specifications.
 $1 Silver Coins. The Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue not more than 350,000 $1
coins in commemoration of the legacy of the United State Army Infantry and the establishment of
the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center and contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent
copper.
• Coins minted under this Act shall be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities. Only one facility of the
United States Mint may be used to strike any particular quality of the coins minted under this Act.
• It is the sense of the Congress that the coins minted under this Act should be struck at the United
States Mint at West Point, New York, to the greatest extent possible.
Approved October 8, 2008. (The Secretary may issue coins under this Act only during the calendar year beginning on January 1, 2012.)

2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar

The U.S. Army Infantry

On June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress authorized the formation of 10 companies of light infantry, creating the first elements of what we now know as the U.S. Armed Forces. From the beginning, the Infantry has borne the brunt of sacrifice for securing and protecting the freedoms of this Nation, our friends and allies. It is the "boots on the ground," armed with both rifle and bayonet, and owns the last 100 yards of the battlefield. The Infantry's seven values mirror the Army's: honor, integrity, duty, selfless service, personal courage, loyalty and respect.

While only one branch of the Army, it has accounted for more than half of all the Medals of Honor awarded. Members of the Infantry have suffered approximately 75 percent of the casualties in our Nation's wars. Fifteen U.S. Presidents, including Andrew Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight Eisenhower, served in the Infantry, all of whom saw combat action. Infantrymen have been called upon to fight all over the world in every sort of weather, over every kind of terrain and in every diverse culture.

The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center tells the Infantry's story and preserves its legacy.
National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center Commemorative Coin Act.

The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center Commemorative Coin Act (Public Law 110-357) signed into law on October 8, 2008, requires the Secretary of the Treasury to mint and issue up to 350,000 silver dollar coins in commemoration of the legacy of the U.S. Army Infantry and the establishment of the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. The coin designs are emblematic of the courage, pride, sacrifice, sense of duty and history of the Infantry. As authorized, the United States Mint is producing 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar coins in proof and uncirculated qualities. Surcharges from this commemorative coin program are authorized to be paid to the National Infantry Foundation.

Coin Designs

The obverse (heads side) design of the 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar features a modern Infantry soldier on rocky ground charging forward and beckoning the troops to follow, symbolizing the "Follow Me" motto of the Infantry. Inscriptions are LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST and 2012. The representation of the contemporary soldier captures the essence of the Infantry's motto.

The reverse (tails) design features the crossed rifles insignia, the branch insignia of the Infantry. Inscriptions are UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ONE DOLLAR and E PLURIBUS UNUM. The insignia is a universally recognizable symbol of the Infantry, as all members wear it.

Both 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar designs were approved by the Department of the Treasury on July 19, 2011, at the recommendation of the United States Mint, after consultation with the National Infantry Foundation and the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, as well as review by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee.

View Coin

United States

S$1 2012 P STAR SPANGLED BANNER

NGC PF 69 ULTRA CAMEO

Background

Star-Spangled Banner Commemorative Coin Program

On September 7, 1814, Francis Scott Key visited the British fleet in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay to secure the release of his friend Dr. William Beanes. The elderly physician had been taken prisoner when the British invaded Washington, setting fire to several government buildings, including the U.S. Capitol, White House and Treasury Department.

Beanes’ release was secured, but he and Key were held by the British during the shelling of Fort McHenry, the principal fort defending Baltimore. On the morning of September 14, 1814, after the 25-hour British bombardment of Fort McHenry, Key peered through the clearing smoke to see a 42-foot by 30-foot American flag flying proudly over it.

He was so inspired by the sight of the enormous flag that he wrote a verse he named “The Defense of Fort McHenry” to commemorate the occasion. He also included a note that it should be sung to the tune of the popular British melody “To Anacreon in Heaven.” Within a month, the words had been published in papers along the eastern seaboard. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that the anthem, which had been popularly renamed the “The Star-Spangled Banner,” be played at military and naval ceremonies. On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a resolution passed by Congress that officially designated “The Star-Spangled Banner” as the U.S. National Anthem.

Star-Spangled Banner Commemorative Coin Act

Public Law 111–232 111th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the bicentennial of the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of the War of 1812 and particularly the Battle for Baltimore that formed the basis for the Star Spangled Banner.
• The Congress finds as follows:
 During the Battle for Baltimore of the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key visited the British fleet in the
Chesapeake Bay on September 7, 1814, to secure the release of Dr. William Beanes, who had
been captured after the British burned Washington, DC.
 The release of Dr. Beanes was secured, but Key and Beanes were held by the British during the
shelling of Fort McHenry, one of the forts defending Baltimore.
 On the morning of September 14, 1814, after the 25- hour British bombardment of Fort McHenry,
Key peered through the clearing smoke to see a 42-foot by 30-foot American flag flying proudly
atop the Fort.
 He was so inspired to see the enormous flag still flying over the Fort that he began penning a song,
which he named The Defense of Fort McHenry, to commemorate the occasion and he included a
note that it should be sung to the tune of the popular British melody To Anacreon in Heaven.
 In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that the anthem, which had been popularly
renamed the Star-Spangled Banner, be played at military and naval occasions.
 On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a resolution of Congress that officially
designated the Star Spangled Banner as the National Anthem of the United States.

• Coin Specifications. The Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue the following coins in commemoration
of the bicentennial of the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner:
 $5 Gold Coins. Not more than 100,000 $5 coins and shall contain 90 percent gold and 10 percent
alloy
 $1 Silver Coins. Not more than 500,000 $1 coins, which shall contain 90 percent silver and 10
percent copper.
• Coins minted under this Act shall be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities. Only one facility of the United
States Mint may be used to strike any particular quality of the coins minted under this Act.

Approved August 16, 2010 (The Secretary may issue coins under this Act only during the calendar year beginning on January 1, 2012.)

View Coin

United States

S$1 2012 P STAR SPANGLED BANNER

NGC MS 70

Background

Star-Spangled Banner Commemorative Coin Program

On September 7, 1814, Francis Scott Key visited the British fleet in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay to secure the release of his friend Dr. William Beanes. The elderly physician had been taken prisoner when the British invaded Washington, setting fire to several government buildings, including the U.S. Capitol, White House and Treasury Department.

Beanes’ release was secured, but he and Key were held by the British during the shelling of Fort McHenry, the principal fort defending Baltimore. On the morning of September 14, 1814, after the 25-hour British bombardment of Fort McHenry, Key peered through the clearing smoke to see a 42-foot by 30-foot American flag flying proudly over it.

He was so inspired by the sight of the enormous flag that he wrote a verse he named “The Defense of Fort McHenry” to commemorate the occasion. He also included a note that it should be sung to the tune of the popular British melody “To Anacreon in Heaven.” Within a month, the words had been published in papers along the eastern seaboard. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that the anthem, which had been popularly renamed the “The Star-Spangled Banner,” be played at military and naval ceremonies. On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a resolution passed by Congress that officially designated “The Star-Spangled Banner” as the U.S. National Anthem.

Star-Spangled Banner Commemorative Coin Act

Public Law 111–232 111th Congress - To require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in commemoration of the bicentennial of the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner. The design of the coins minted under this Act shall be emblematic of the War of 1812 and particularly the Battle for Baltimore that formed the basis for the Star Spangled Banner.
• The Congress finds as follows:
 During the Battle for Baltimore of the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key visited the British fleet in the
Chesapeake Bay on September 7, 1814, to secure the release of Dr. William Beanes, who had
been captured after the British burned Washington, DC.
 The release of Dr. Beanes was secured, but Key and Beanes were held by the British during the
shelling of Fort McHenry, one of the forts defending Baltimore.
 On the morning of September 14, 1814, after the 25- hour British bombardment of Fort McHenry,
Key peered through the clearing smoke to see a 42-foot by 30-foot American flag flying proudly
atop the Fort.
 He was so inspired to see the enormous flag still flying over the Fort that he began penning a song,
which he named The Defense of Fort McHenry, to commemorate the occasion and he included a
note that it should be sung to the tune of the popular British melody To Anacreon in Heaven.
 In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that the anthem, which had been popularly
renamed the Star-Spangled Banner, be played at military and naval occasions.
 On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a resolution of Congress that officially
designated the Star Spangled Banner as the National Anthem of the United States.

• Coin Specifications. The Secretary of the Treasury shall mint and issue the following coins in commemoration
of the bicentennial of the writing of the Star-Spangled Banner:
 $5 Gold Coins. Not more than 100,000 $5 coins and shall contain 90 percent gold and 10 percent
alloy
 $1 Silver Coins. Not more than 500,000 $1 coins, which shall contain 90 percent silver and 10
percent copper.
• Coins minted under this Act shall be issued in uncirculated and proof qualities. Only one facility of the United
States Mint may be used to strike any particular quality of the coins minted under this Act.

Approved August 16, 2010 (The Secretary may issue coins under this Act only during the calendar year beginning on January 1, 2012.)

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