How the US Mint Encourages Education and Fosters Connections Through Coins

If you’ve moved recently, you may have discovered some unique coins in a box or drawer. Perhaps you have a collection of the United States Mint's quarters, such as the 50 State Quarters or the American Women Quarters. You may also have other coins or medals you’re unsure what to do with.

The U.S. Mint has some ideas for you. Coins and medals can connect you with other military family members, serve as a great gift and spark conversations about history.

The U.S. Mint’s goal -- to serve the American people -- is similar to the military. It does this by making coinage for commerce, protecting our nation's assets at depositories such as Fort Knox in Kentucky and creating collectibles representing U.S. historical events and people. Its collections include those specific to the military, such as the American Veterans Medal, and those honoring people from underrepresented groups and lesser-known historical events. The U.S. Mint also provides educational tips on collecting, caring for and gifting these coins and medals. It has great educational information for kids in its US Mint Coin Classroom.

Start with the Basics: Coin Collecting

A displayed coin or medal is a great conversation starter, which can help to honor and preserve historical moments and people. The discussions that come from a question about a medal or coin collection can introduce topics about groups, such as the Navajo Code Talkers or the Women Airforce Service Pilots.

Caring for your coin collection can be as easy as keeping them in their original holders in a cool, dry place and keeping your documentation safe. The craftsmanship and quality seen in these coins help increase their value later if you can maintain them.

Fostering Connections with Coins

Military coin collecting provides a unique opportunity to talk about military history. Coins can prompt you to learn about branches other than the one in which you served and about underrepresented events. Collecting can be a family event, where everyone learns what to look for in a coin and why Congress authorized specific ones. You can also connect with others who may have this coin in their collection or have a family connection.

The U.S. Mint’s collection of military coins and medals is a great way for military families to commemorate U.S. military history and service members' roles. The account is even more memorable when there is a direct tie to the event, unit or group represented.

Preserving History Through Giving Gifts

When it comes to military events, there is always a discussion about gifts. Military coins or medals from the United States Mint are excellent for promotion, retirement or appreciation gifts. The U.S. Mint offers extensive military medals and coins that fit any budget, including the six Armed Forces Silver Medals, the USS Indianapolis Bronze Medal and the Office of Strategic Services Bronze Medal. You can view the entire collection online.

Learn more about the U.S. Mint’s military coins and medals collection and how you can use military medals and coins to preserve history, foster relationships and connect to U.S. military history. Learn more about the U.S. Mint’s 2024 product release schedule.