The 2011 Medal of Honor Commemorative Coins are special coins made by the United States Mint. They were created to celebrate the Medal of Honor, which is the highest award given to soldiers for bravery during battle. This coin series includes both gold coins worth $5 and silver dollars. They come in two styles: proof (which is shiny and made for collectors) and uncirculated (which is in mint condition).
Background of the Medal of Honor Coins
These coins were authorized by a law passed by Congress called the Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Act of 2009, which was signed by President Barack Obama on November 6, 2009. The law was created to honor the establishment of the Medal of Honor in 1861 and to recognize the courage and sacrifice of American soldiers who have received this prestigious award.
Purpose of the Coins
The coins aim to:
- Recognize the significance of the Medal of Honor.
- Honor military personnel who received the Medal of Honor.
- Raise awareness about what the Medal of Honor represents: bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism.
Rare Award
Receiving the Medal of Honor is very difficult. Since its creation, only about 3,500 individuals have been awarded this honor, showing how special it is.
Details About the Coins
The United States Mint planned to release the 2011 Medal of Honor Commemorative Coins on February 25, 2011. Below is a table summarizing the key details of each coin type:
| Coin Type | Composition | Diameter | Maximum Mintage | Extra Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5 Gold Coin | 90% gold | 0.85 inches | 100,000 coins | $35 |
| Silver Dollar | 90% silver, 10% copper | 1.5 inches | 500,000 coins | $10 |
Pricing and Proceeds
When sold, there will be extra fees added to the coin prices, which will go to the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation to support educational programs and scholarships.
Types of Coins
Medal of Honor $5 Gold Coin
- Composition: 90% gold
- Size: 0.85 inches in diameter
- Maximum Mintage: 100,000 coins
Design:
- Front (Obverse): Shows the original 1861 Navy Medal of Honor. It has the words LIBERTY, 1861, 2011, IN GOD WE TRUST, and MEDAL OF HONOR. The artist is Joseph Menna.
- Back (Reverse): Features Minerva, the Roman goddess, holding a shield and the Union flag. The words around her include UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, $5, and E PLURIBUS UNUM.
Medal of Honor Silver Dollar
- Composition: 90% silver and 10% copper
- Size: 1.5 inches in diameter
- Maximum Mintage: 500,000 coins
Design:
- Front (Obverse): Displays the Army, Navy, and Air Force medals. It also includes LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, MEDAL OF HONOR, and 1861–2011. The designer is Jim Licaretz.
- Back (Reverse): Shows a modern soldier rescuing a wounded comrade under fire. The words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ONE DOLLAR, and E PLURIBUS UNUM are also included. The artist is Richard Masters.
Conclusion
The 2011 Medal of Honor Commemorative Coins are more than just coins; they represent the bravery and sacrifice of those who serve in the military. They remind us of the values of courage and selflessness that the Medal of Honor stands for. The creation of these coins is an excellent way to honor the past while educating people about the heroes among us. Owning a piece of this coin series is like holding a part of history, paying tribute to the dedication of American soldiers throughout the years.
FAQ’s
What are the 2011 Medal of Honor Commemorative Coins?
The 2011 Medal of Honor Commemorative Coins are special coins issued by the United States Mint to honor the Medal of Honor, the highest military award for bravery. This series includes both $5 gold coins and silver dollars.
When were the 2011 Medal of Honor Coins released?
The coins were released on February 25, 2011, and were created to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Medal of Honor, which was established in 1861.
Where do the proceeds from the sale of these coins go?
A portion of the sale proceeds, specifically surcharges of $35 per gold coin and $10 per silver dollar, goes to the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation to support educational programs and scholarships.
