In a recent meeting held via teleconference on June 18, the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) made important decisions about upcoming U.S. coin and medal designs. These designs are meant to honor significant historical events and people, including the contributions of the Oneida Nation during the American Revolutionary War and the resilience of American hostages in the Iran Hostage Crisis from 1979 to 1981.
| Design | Subject | Key Details | Proposed Changes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Native American Dollar | Oneida Nation’s Contributions | Honors the Oneidas who aided Gen. Washington at Valley Forge. | Polly Cooper holding corn, Washington with an ear of corn. Denomination moved to bottom right. |
| Iran Hostage Crisis Medal | Hostages held in Iran (1979-1981) | Celebrates the release of 53 Americans after 444 days of captivity. | “444” outline with blindfolded figures, stars for hostages, and U.S. Embassy inscription. |
The committee reviewed designs for the 2026 Native American dollar, which will commemorate the Oneida Nation’s support for General George Washington at Valley Forge. Additionally, they considered design proposals for a gold medal dedicated to the hostages of the Iran crisis. Each design proposal has a powerful story to tell, aiming to honor the bravery and sacrifices made by individuals in challenging times.
Proposed Coin Design for 2026 Native American Dollar
Background: Oneida Nation’s Contribution
The 2026 Native American dollar will celebrate the Oneida Nation’s crucial role in aiding the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. The Oneidas were among the first Native American groups to support the American cause. They provided essential help, such as sharing intelligence, supplying food, and even offering troops, scouts, and spies.
Story of Polly Cooper and the Gift of Corn
Oneida Chief Shenandoah organized a significant gift of dried white corn to help feed starving soldiers at Valley Forge. An Oneida woman named Polly Cooper accompanied the warriors on their journey to deliver this corn. She not only prepared the food but also taught the soldiers how to cook it properly so it could be eaten safely. While many Oneida warriors returned home, Cooper stayed behind to continue helping the troops.
Proposed Design Details
The recommended design features Polly Cooper holding a basket of corn, symbolizing the Oneida Nation’s act of compassion and generosity. The design also shows General Washington holding an ear of corn, illustrating their shared moment of unity and support. The CCAC suggested some adjustments, such as moving the denomination “$1” to the bottom right and relocating the inscription “POLLY COOPER” to a more central position.
Proposed Congressional Gold Medal for Iran Hostages
Background: The Iran Hostage Crisis
In 1979, militants seized the U.S. embassy in Tehran, Iran, and took 53 Americans hostage. This intense and challenging period, known as the Iran Hostage Crisis, lasted 444 days. The hostages included diplomats, military personnel, and civilians. The crisis had a significant impact on the United States, highlighting national unity and the strength of those held captive.
Medal Design Considerations
The CCAC evaluated ten obverse (front) and nine reverse (back) design options. A favored obverse design includes the number “444,” symbolizing the days of captivity, with outlines of blindfolded figures. The border features 53 stars, representing each hostage, and the text “ACT OF CONGRESS 2022.” The date “November 4, 1979,” is included along with the inscription “U.S. EMBASSY TEHRAN, IRAN.”
Conclusion
Through these coin and medal designs, the CCAC seeks to honor both the Oneida Nation’s contribution to America’s founding and the strength of Americans held during the Iran Hostage Crisis. These designs aim to ensure that future generations remember and respect these significant moments in U.S. history.
FAQs
1. What is the 2026 Native American dollar design about?
The design honors the Oneida Nation’s contribution to the American Revolutionary War, specifically their support of General George Washington and the Continental Army at Valley Forge. The design will feature Polly Cooper, an Oneida woman who helped feed Washington’s troops with corn.
2. Why is Polly Cooper important in American history?
Polly Cooper was an Oneida woman who stayed with Washington’s troops at Valley Forge. She taught the soldiers how to properly prepare corn, which was a crucial food source for the starving army. Her contribution is a key part of the Oneida Nation’s support during the war.
3. What is the Iran Hostage Crisis, and why is it being honored with a gold medal?
The Iran Hostage Crisis began on November 4, 1979, when militants took 53 Americans hostage in Tehran. They were held for 444 days. The proposed gold medal is meant to recognize their resilience and the national unity that resulted from this traumatic event.