WASHINGTON — The Nation will pause on Sunday, September 11, 2011, to observe the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States. To commemorate this tragic moment in history, the men and women of the United States Mint are proud to strike and make available the official 2011 September 11 National Medal. The medal is authorized by Public Law 111–221, the “National September 11 Memorial & Museum Commemorative Medal Act of 2010.”
The medal’s obverse (heads side) design features Lady Liberty holding the Lamp of Remembrance. Behind her are beacons of light stretching skyward. Lady Liberty, the lamp and the light symbolize not only the immeasurable loss on that fateful day, but also the resilience and triumph of those who persevered. Inscriptions are ALWAYS REMEMBER and 2001 – 2011. The medal’s obverse was designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Master Designer Donna Weaver and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor–Engraver Phebe Hemphill.
The medal’s reverse (tails) design depicts an eagle – symbolizing the strength of the survivors, the families and the Nation – against a backdrop of cascading water. The flowing water is emblematic of peace, serenity, healing and the continuity of life. Inscriptions are HONOR and HOPE. The medal’s reverse was designed by Weaver and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor–Engraver Joseph Menna.
To the extent possible, approximately one–half of the proof quality one–ounce silver medals will be struck at the United States Mint at West Point (featuring the “W” mint mark) and one–half at the United States Mint at Philadelphia (featuring the “P” mint mark). Customers may purchase one or both options. There is no household order limit for this product.
Pricing for the 2011 September 11 National Medal is currently set at $66.95. A $10 surcharge included in the price of each medal is authorized to be paid to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, a private not–for–profit organization overseeing the design and funding of the memorial and museum at the World Trade Center site. The funds will support the museum’s operations and maintenance once it is completed. To learn more about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, please visit http://www.911memorial.org/.
To place an order, visit http://www.usmint.gov/catalog or call 1–800–USA–MINT (872–6468). Hearing– and speech–impaired customers with TTY equipment may order by calling 1–888–321–MINT (6468). A shipping and handling fee of $4.95 will be added to all domestic orders.
The United States Mint, created by Congress in 1792, is the Nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage and is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The United States Mint also produces proof, uncirculated and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; and silver, gold and platinum bullion coins.