U.S. Mint Unveils Commemorative Coins Celebrating 250 Years of Marine Corps Service

Marine Corps Base Quantico, VA – The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation (MCHF) and the U.S. Mint revealed a trio of commemorative coin designs honoring 250 years of Marine Corps service and sacrifice. The unveiling ceremony took place on July 17, 2024, at the National Museum of the Marine Corps (NMMC).

A Tribute to Marine Corps History

This marks the first minting of Marine Corps commemorative coins since the Corps’ 230th anniversary in 2005. The funds generated from those coins enabled the construction of the NMMC, where the new 250th anniversary coins were officially revealed.

“This is a way for everyone in America to recognize the importance of 250 years of what the Marine Corps means to this country,” said retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. James W. Lukeman, president and CEO of the MCHF.

Commemorative Coin Designs

The commemorative coin designs celebrate the Marine Corps’ rich history:

• Gold Coin: Depicts the Marine Corps Color Guard.
• Silver Coin: Features the iconic flag raising of Iwo Jima.
• Clad Coin: Showcases two Marines, one in the 1775 continental uniform with a musket and the other in modern camouflage utilities wielding an M4 service rifle.

“Next year will mark 250 years of the Marine Corps making Marines and winning battles on behalf of our great Nation. These coins represent the cultural significance of our Corps and will directly contribute to the telling of our history and preserving our institution in the hearts of future generations,” said the Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric M. Smith.

Legislative Authorization

On July 26, 2023, President Joe Biden signed into law the 250th Marine Corps Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act, authorizing the minting of over 1 million commemorative coins. The signed legislation allows the Department of Treasury to mint:

• 50,000 five-dollar coins,
• 400,000 one-dollar coins,
• 750,000 half-dollar coins.

Design and Purpose

Kristie McNally, deputy director of the U.S. Mint, spoke about the meticulous care that went into designing the coins. “It’s exciting to actually get to share them with the public,” McNally said. All surcharges generated from coin sales will support the MCHF and NMMC’s educational, historical, and cultural programs.

Supporting Marine Corps Heritage

The commemorative coins will be part of the national celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary and will be the only commemorative coins minted in 2025. The funds raised will help preserve and educate the public on Marine Corps history, traditions, and culture.

“I am grateful to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, congressional leaders, and all those who made this coin possible,” said Gen. Smith. “We are honored that they would bestow this symbol of appreciation upon us.”

Viewing the Commemorative Coins

To view the Marine Corps’ 250th Anniversary Commemorative Coins, please visit the U.S. Mint’s official website.