Coins and medals often carry stories of historical significance, representing moments of courage, unity, and sacrifice. Recently, the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) convened a meeting via teleconference to recommend designs for two meaningful projects: the reverse design for the 2026 Native American dollar and both the obverse and reverse designs for a congressional gold medal. These designs are tributes to the resilience and contributions of historical figures and events, including the Oneidas’ aid to American troops during the Revolutionary War and the Iran Hostage Crisis of 1979-1981.
| Design | Details | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Native American Dollar (Reverse) | Features Polly Cooper holding a basket of corn. | Honors the Oneidas’ aid to Gen. Washington at Valley Forge. |
| Obverse of 2026 Native American Dollar | Gen. Washington holding an ear of corn. | Represents the exchange of corn between the Oneidas and troops. |
| Congressional Gold Medal (Obverse) | Depicts 53 blindfolded figures outlined in the number 444. | Honors the 53 U.S. hostages, captured for 444 days in Tehran. |
| Congressional Gold Medal (Reverse) | Stars and the inscription “ACT OF CONGRESS 2022”. | Recognizes the national unity formed during the hostage crisis. |
| Date Inscription for Gold Medal | Includes “NOVEMBER 4, 1979” and “U.S. EMBASSY.” | Marks the day of the hostage capture and the location. |
The 2026 Native American Dollar
Honoring the Oneida Nation
The 2026 Native American dollar’s reverse design honors the significant contributions of the Oneida Nation during the American Revolutionary War. As early allies of the American cause, the Oneidas provided invaluable support, including soldiers, scouts, and intelligence. Perhaps most remarkable was their delivery of life-saving food supplies to Gen. George Washington and his troops at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
At the heart of this story is Polly Cooper, an Oneida woman whose contribution is central to the proposed coin design. Oral tradition credits Cooper with teaching American soldiers how to prepare dried white corn—a crucial source of sustenance during the harsh winter.
The Proposed Design
The CCAC reviewed nine designs for the coin’s reverse, each focusing on the theme of the Oneidas’ aid at Valley Forge. The recommended design features Polly Cooper holding a basket of corn, symbolizing the Oneidas’ gift. Gen. Washington is depicted holding an ear of corn, emphasizing the cultural and practical exchange between the Oneida Nation and the Continental Army.
The CCAC suggested moving the “$1” denomination to the lower right and repositioning the inscription “POLLY COOPER” for better visual balance.
Congressional Gold Medal: Iran Hostages
Remembering the Iran Hostage Crisis
The Iran Hostage Crisis remains a pivotal moment in U.S. history, symbolizing resilience in the face of adversity. On Nov. 4, 1979, 53 U.S. diplomats, military personnel, and civilians were taken hostage by Iranian militants at the U.S. embassy in Tehran. This 444-day ordeal tested the nation’s resolve and unity.
To honor these hostages and their sacrifices, Congress authorized a gold medal to be struck by the U.S. Mint. The design aims to capture the courage and endurance of the individuals involved.
Proposed Designs
The CCAC reviewed 10 obverse and nine reverse designs for the medal. The favored obverse design features 53 stars encircling the number 444, representing the number of days the hostages were held. It also includes key inscriptions such as “ACT OF CONGRESS 2022,” the date “NOVEMBER 4, 1979,” and “U.S. EMBASSY” instead of the initially suggested “AMERICAN EMBASSY.”
The reverse design proposals commemorate the hostages’ resilience and the unity their experience inspired across the United States.
Broader Themes
Semiquincentennial Coin Themes
The design of the Native American dollar aligns with broader themes for 2026, celebrating the U.S. Semiquincentennial. These themes reflect the spirit of unity and the diverse contributions that shaped the nation’s 250-year history.
The Importance of Historical Recognition
Both projects emphasize the significance of remembering historical events and figures. Coins and medals serve not only as currency or collectibles but also as lasting symbols of the nation’s past, fostering a deeper connection to its heritage.
Conclusion
The CCAC’s recommendations for the 2026 Native American dollar and the congressional gold medal underscore the power of art and design to tell stories. Through careful attention to detail and collaboration with stakeholders, these designs will honor the legacy of the Oneidas and the resilience of the Iran hostages, ensuring their contributions are remembered for generations.
FAQs
1. What is the 2026 Native American Dollar celebrating?
The 2026 Native American Dollar celebrates the contributions of the Oneida Nation during the American Revolutionary War, particularly their aid to Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army at Valley Forge.
2. Why is Polly Cooper important in the 2026 coin design?
Polly Cooper, an Oneida woman, is credited with teaching soldiers how to prepare dried corn, which was a critical food source for Washington’s troops. Her role in this historical event is the focus of the coin’s reverse design.
3. What is the significance of the congressional gold medal for the Iran Hostage Crisis?
The gold medal is designed to honor the resilience of the 53 Americans who were held hostage by Iranian militants for 444 days, starting on November 4, 1979. It recognizes their endurance and the unity the crisis inspired in the United States.
4. How are the designs for these coins and medals chosen?
The Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) reviews and recommends designs for U.S. coins and medals. In the case of these designs, they considered multiple proposals and worked with stakeholders like former hostages and historical experts.
5. What does the number 444 represent on the congressional gold medal?
The number 444 represents the number of days that the U.S. hostages were held captive in Iran. It is a central element in the design of the congressional gold medal, symbolizing their prolonged ordeal.