The Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Act of 2009 was signed into law by President Obama in early Nov. 2006. It calls for the United States Mint to create up to 500,000 $1 silver coins and 100,000 $5 gold coins in 2011 to mark the 150th anniversary of the first Medal of Honor.
The legislation was introduced in the House by Representative Christopher Carney of Pennsylvania, who is still actively serving in the U.S. Navy Reserve. It was co-sponsored by Representative Mark Kirk of Illinois.
"We owe everything to those who wore the uniform and committed extraordinary acts of bravery in defense of their colleagues and nation," said Rep. Christopher Carney.
In the Senate, a companion bill was co-sponsored by John Kerry of Massachusetts, a Vietnam Veteran, and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, currently a member of the United States Air Force Reserve.
"The Medal of Honor represents men and women in uniform at their very best, courage and patriotism, grit and guts personified," said Senator Kerry. "This vote was a humble offering of thanks to the 3,448 American service members who have given so selflessly out of love for their country."
Up to $8.5 million will be raised for the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation through a surcharge added to each coin. The Foundation will use the money to continue its programs "to perpetuate the Medal of Honor's legacy.
Final design and release dates for the Medal of Honor coin will be announced later by the US Mint.
For the latest 2009 bills relating to coins, visit the Coinage Legislation page.
