In 2023, the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) reviewed designs for two important U.S. coins and medals: the Iran Hostage Crisis Congressional Gold Medal and the 2026 Native American Dollar. The designs, which were considered on June 20, were created to honor specific historical events and people. After careful consideration, the CFA recommended the final designs to the Treasury Secretary for approval.
| Feature | Iran Hostage Crisis Medal | 2026 Native American Dollar |
|---|---|---|
| Event Honored | Iran Hostage Crisis (1979-1981) | Oneida Tribe’s help to George Washington during the American Revolution |
| Design | Liberty’s torch breaking chains (Obverse), Oak sprig symbolizing strength (Reverse) | Polly Cooper holding a basket of corn (Reverse) |
| Inscriptions | “COURAGE”, “SACRIFICE”, “RESILIENCE”, “A GRATEFUL NATION REMEMBERS”, “IRAN HOSTAGES”, “STRENGTH UNITY LOYALTY” | “POLLY COOPER” |
| Key Dates | November 4, 1979 – January 20, 1981 | None listed |
| Medal Size | 1.5-inch and 3-inch options for sale | N/A |
| Materials for Sale | Copper and Zinc (95% copper, 5% zinc for smaller; 90% copper, 10% zinc for larger) | N/A |
| Price Range | $20 (smaller), $160 (larger) | N/A |
| Destination After Awarding | National Museum of American History (Smithsonian) | N/A |
Proposed Design for Iran Hostage Crisis Congressional Gold Medal
The Iran Hostage Crisis took place on November 4, 1979, when militants took over the U.S. embassy in Tehran, Iran. They held 66 Americans hostage, with 52 of them kept in captivity for 444 days. The U.S. government later honored these hostages by issuing a Congressional Gold Medal.
Front Design (Obverse) of the Medal
The CFA recommended a design that features Liberty’s torch from the Statue of Liberty, breaking through chains. This symbolizes the hostages’ strong desire for freedom while in captivity. The inscription around the image reads “IRAN HOSTAGES”, with additional words like “COURAGE,” “SACRIFICE,” “RESILIENCE,” and “A GRATEFUL NATION REMEMBERS.”
Back Design (Reverse) of the Medal
On the back of the medal, the CFA recommended an image of an oak sprig, which represents the strength and resilience of the hostages during their time in captivity. The border includes the words “STRENGTH UNITY LOYALTY,” which reflect the qualities shown by the hostages. The dates “NOVEMBER 4, 1979” and “JANUARY 20, 1981” are also included, along with “ACT OF CONGRESS 2022.”
Once the medal is awarded, it will be sent to the National Museum of American History for display.
Proposed Design for 2026 Native American Dolla
The 2026 Native American Dollar celebrates the help the Oneida tribe gave to Gen. George Washington and his soldiers during the American Revolutionary War. In particular, Polly Cooper, a member of the Oneida tribe, cooked and prepared corn to feed the soldiers at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
Back Design (Reverse) of the Coin
The CFA recommends a design showing Polly Cooper holding a basket of corn and showing it to George Washington, who expresses gratitude. In the background, there are rays of light representing how important the corn was for the soldiers, who were starving.
The design will include the words “POLLY COOPER” to honor her contributions. Additionally, the $1 denomination will be added to the design.
Conclusion
Both of these proposed designs are a tribute to significant moments in U.S. history. The Iran Hostage Crisis medal recognizes the courage and resilience of the American hostages, while the 2026 Native American Dollar honors the Oneida tribe and Polly Cooper for their help to George Washington’s army. These coins and medals show the nation’s appreciation for those who have made a difference in history.
FAQs
1. What is the Iran Hostage Crisis Congressional Gold Medal?
The Iran Hostage Crisis Congressional Gold Medal is a medal awarded to honor the American diplomats, military personnel, and civilians who were taken hostage during the takeover of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran, Iran, on November 4, 1979. The medal recognizes their bravery and resilience during their captivity, which lasted for 444 days.
2. Who is Polly Cooper and why is she featured on the Native American Dollar?
Polly Cooper was a member of the Oneida tribe who helped cook and prepare food for George Washington’s troops during the American Revolutionary War. The Oneida tribe played a crucial role in aiding the Continental Army by donating food, and Polly Cooper’s story highlights the strength and selflessness of the tribe during a pivotal moment in American history.
3. What is the design of the Iran Hostage Crisis Congressional Gold Medal?
The front (obverse) design of the medal shows Liberty’s torch breaking chains, symbolizing the desire for freedom. The back (reverse) design features an oak sprig, which stands for strength and resilience, symbolizing the character of the hostages during their captivity.
4. How much will the Iran Hostage Crisis Congressional Gold Medal cost?
Bronze replicas of the Iran Hostage Crisis Congressional Gold Medal will be sold in two sizes: a 1.5-inch version priced at $20 and a larger 3-inch version priced at $160. The smaller medals are made of 95% copper and 5% zinc, while the larger ones are 90% copper and 10% zinc.
5. Where will the Iran Hostage Crisis Congressional Gold Medal be displayed?
After the medal is awarded by Congress, it will be sent to the National Museum of American History at the Smithsonian Institution. It will be displayed for the public and available for research purposes.