2016 U.S. Coast Guard Aviation 100th Anniversary Challenge Coin

Large commemorative U.S. Coast Guard Aviation 100th Anniversary challenge coin, issued in recognition of a century of Coast Guard aviation history from 1916 to 2016.

One side features an early Coast Guard aircraft rendered in gold against a dark blue enamel field. Surrounding the aircraft is:

“U.S. COAST GUARD AVIATION – INTO THE STORM FOR 100 YEARS”

with the centennial dates “1916-2016” prominently displayed beneath the aircraft.

The opposite side features a collection of aircraft representing the evolution of Coast Guard aviation over its first century, including both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. Surrounding the aircraft is the inscription:

“HONORING OUR PAST, STRENGTHENING OUR FUTURE – 100TH ANNIVERSARY”

The coin features an attractive gold-tone finish with contrasting dark blue enamel and detailed raised aircraft designs.

The U.S. Coast Guard traces the official beginning of its aviation program to 1916, making 2016 the service’s aviation centennial. Over the following century, Coast Guard aviation became an integral part of maritime search and rescue, law enforcement, national defense and humanitarian operations.

An excellent collectible for anyone interested in U.S. Coast Guard history, military aviation, challenge coins, search-and-rescue aviation or modern U.S. militaria.