Dear American Legion Family and Friends,
It's an exciting week for The American Legion. On Thursday at noon Eastern Daylight Time, our U.S. Mint centennial coins will go on sale. One day later, our centennial celebration kicks into high gear as the Legion reaches its 100th birthday.
Our first century has been packed full of patriotism since our founding in France. Not coincidentally, the collectible coins feature images reflecting back to our origins in Paris. (To purchase a coin, or coins, or for more information, please visit
www.legion.org/coin. For those who do not have access to a computer, call 800-872-6468.)
The special centennial coins, produced and sold by the U.S. Mint, are a great way to honor our organization's legacy that began March 15-17, 1919. It's an awesome, inspiring and successful legacy — authoring the GI Bill, creating what is today's Department of Veterans Affairs, ushering in the U.S. Flag Code, mentoring millions of youths through various programs, and so much more.
The Mint only authorizes two commemorative coins each year. The selection of The American Legion is indicative of the respect bestowed upon our organization. After all, The American Legion 100th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act set a record for coin bills in Congress. We counted 385 House members and 75 senators agreeing to be co-sponsors.
Only 50,000 of the $5 gold coins, 400,000 silver dollar coins and 750,000 half-dollar coins will be produced. Once they are gone, they are gone.
Proceeds from coin sales will help fund American Legion programs that support veterans, servicemembers, their families and the communities in which they live. Up to $9.5 million is expected to be raised. Surcharges totaling $35 for each $5 gold coin sold, $10 for each silver dollar sold, and $5 for each half dollar sold are authorized to be paid to The American Legion.
This week marks an excellent time to celebrate our legacy and help us navigate the road to our second century of success. While there are many variables to the cost of the coins, one thing remains certain: the introductory price will only last until 3 p.m. EDT on April 15. After that time, the price will increase. Check the website for specific pricing information.
With your support and the proceeds from this coin sale, our second century of service will get off to the right start, continuing the legacy that began a century ago.
Celebrating our legacy.
