What is the Significance of the Coin?

 The U.S. Military has a longstanding list of traditions. One of the most enduring is the tradition of issuing ceremonial coins.

The issuing of coins in its earliest form can be traced to the Roman Empire, where coins were presented to reward achievements. More recently, the practice of presenting a coin or medallion in military units dates to British involvement in the Boar War.  During this period, officers were the only ones authorized to receive medals. As such, when an enlisted soldier did a good job, it was typical for the officer in his charge to receive the award. However, the Regimental Sergeant Major would often sneak into the officer's tent, cut the medal from the ribbon and then informally present the medal to the exceptional soldier. The officers were typically aware of this practice and regularly condoned the action, as many often felt ill-at ease in accepting the medal in the first place. As time went on, the coin recognition eventually extended to American forces serving in World War I

During WW I, American volunteers from all parts of the country eagerly filled newly formed flying squadrons serving in the European theater. Some of these volunteers were wealthy young men who left prestigious colleges such as Yale and Harvard to join the war. In one squadron, a wealthy lieutenant ordered medallions struck in solid bronze. These medallions boasted the squadron emblem and were given to every member of this young pilot’s squadron as a gift and message of unity. He carried his squadron medallion in a small leather pouch around his neck.

Shortly after acquiring the medallions, the pilot's aircraft was severely damaged by ground fire. He was forced to land behind enemy lines and was immediately captured by a German patrol. In order to discourage his escape, the Germans took all of his personal identification except for the small leather pouch around his neck. Following capture, he was taken to a small French town near the front. However, he quickly escaped and managed to avoid German patrols, eventually reaching the front lines. With great difficulty, he crossed no-man's land and eventually stumbled onto a French outpost. Unfortunately, saboteurs had plagued the French in this sector and, as the young lieutenant was not in uniform and had no form of identification, the French thought him a saboteur and made ready to execute him. Just in time, he remembered his leather pouch containing the medallion and showed it to his would-be executioners. His French captors recognized the squadron insignia on the medallion and delayed long enough for him to confirm his identity. Instead of shooting him, they gave him a bottle of wine. As a result of this incident, it became a tradition in the squadron to ensure all members carried their medallion or coin at all times; a tradition that carries on to this day.

 Today, regardless of branch of service, the coin has become a standard way to recognize outstanding acts performed by soldiers in the course of duty. Civilian organizations, such as SWAT teams and civil service members, also utilize coins to commemorate accomplishments and/or team unity. Additionally, such coins provide an opportunity for units and organizations to demonstrate esprit de corps and serve as tangible reminders of shared purpose and collective commitment. In keeping with tradition, the Mustard Seed Foundation has created a coin that recognizes America’s patriots. The symbol of this coin  serves as a tangible reminder of the tremendous support our service men and women can count on from our nations citizens; citizens that may not serve in uniform, but serve equally in pride and commitment.