United States Armed Forces Silver Medal – U.S. Navy
Background
The U.S. Navy Silver Medal is the third medal in the U.S. Armed Forces Silver Medals Program. In 2022, the U.S. Mint released a bronze medal of the same design.
The U.S. Navy was established by Congress in 1798. The designs featured on this medal are emblematic of the history and mission of the Navy. The obverse features a modern Navy destroyer and the historic U.S.S. Constitution. The inscription, “DON’T GIVE UP THE SHIP,” was spoken by mortally wounded Commander James Lawrence to his crew on the U.S.S. Chesapeake during the War of 1812. The inscriptions on the reverse are the Navy’s core values, “HONOR,” “COURAGE,” and “COMMITMENT.
Characteristics
The obverse depicts the U. S. Navy destroyer John Paul Jones cutting through the water while the U.S.S. Constitution sails behind it. An F-18 Hornet formation flies by, leaving smoke trails in the sky, paying honor to both ships.
The reverse features a line of sailors manning the rail while the American flag flies in the background.
Obverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES NAVY
- DON'T GIVE UP THE SHIP
Reverse Inscriptions
- HONOR
- COURAGE
- COMMITMENT
Mint and Mint Mark
Specifications
The U.S. Navy Medal has a matte finish. The medal does not have a mint mark.
One Ounce Silver Medal:
- Composition: 99.9% silver
- Diameter: 1.598 inches (40.60 mm)
- Weight: 1.000 troy oz.
2.5 Ounce Silver Medal:
- Composition: 99.9% silver
- Diameter: 2.000 inches (50.80 mm)
- Weight: 2.500 troy oz. (77.759 grams)
Bronze Medal:
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% zinc
- Diameter: 1.500 inches (38.10 mm)
Artist Information
Obverse- Sculptor: Jay M. Kushwara, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Donna Weaver, Artistic Infusion Program
- Sculptor: John P. McGraw, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Steve Ferris, Artistic Infusion Program