This year, the United States proudly honors the Marine Corps and all Marines who have sacrificed and contributed in our Nation’s service. Public Law 108-291, signed August 6, 2004, authorizes the minting of a Silver Dollar to commemorate the 230th Anniversary of the United States Marine Corps.

On November 10, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the raising of two battalions of American Marines, thereby creating the legendary institution today known as the United States Marine Corps. From the Nation’s birth to the present day, the Marines represent a proud culture of service and contribution in defense of the values and freedoms at the heart of the American experience.

According to the United States Marine Corps Hymn, Marines have "fought in ev’ry clime and place" throughout our Nation’s history. The story of the Marine Corps is the personification of American military history beginning with the American Revolution. The flag raising at Iwo Jima, represented at the Marine Corps War Memorial, is ingrained in the public mind as perhaps the enduring image of World War II.

Today, the Marines continue to exemplify the warrior ethos that has made it a fighting force of international repute. The philosophy of the Corps—and of the hundreds of thousands of individuals who have earned the title "Marine" over the last 230 years—is simply stated in its core values: Honor. Courage. Commitment.

Coins offered in both proof and uncirculated condition may be issued under this Act only during the one-year period beginning January 1, 2005.

Surcharges from the sale of each coin are authorized for the creation of the National Museum of the Marine Corps at Quantico, Virginia, which is being developed as a partnership of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation and the United States Marine Corps.

These coins will go on sale July 20, 2005.