Deliberately targeting the symbols of America's military strength and economic prosperity, nineteen evil terrorists sought to weaken the resolve of the world's most powerful nation on September 11, 2001.

Instead, their cold-blooded actions gave rise to a wave of unprecedented national unity and unparalleled patriotism, as Americans from coast to coast collectively vowed to avenge the deaths of their fellow citizens.

Executing its mission as the chief protector and defender of America's national security and the steward of the nation's military arsenal, the Department of Defense quickly initiated the launch of a series of blistering attacks against the enemy, sending a clear message to the world that America will not tolerate terrorism.

This coin honors the victims of the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001 and serves as a reminder to all Americans that the cost of freedom is constant vigilance. The obverse contains a rendering the Pentagon set against a compelling montage of patriotic symbols. The reverse depicts the New York City skyline as it appeared prior to the terrorist attacks and contains the phrase "Lest We Forget."

Minted in MerlinGold,® a proprietary brass alloy that simulates the look and feel of gold, this coin contains an antique bronze finish. Each coin comes packaged with a header card that describes the mission and history of the U.S. Department of Defense.