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The U.S. Mint Armed Forces 2.5 oz. Silver Medal honoring the United States Marine Corps is a commanding tribute to one of the most iconic and revered branches of the U.S. military. As part of the Mint’s prestigious Armed Forces Medal Program, this large-format medal is struck in 2.5 troy ounces of .999 fine silver and designed to celebrate the Marine Corps’ proud heritage, core values, and elite combat readiness. Unlike coins, this is a commemorative medal with no face value, issued not for circulation but to honor the service, sacrifice, and unwavering discipline of the U.S. Marines. The combination of its weight, design quality, and limited mintage makes it a prized acquisition for collectors and patriots alike.
The U.S. Mint began the Armed Forces Silver Medal Program to recognize the five main branches of the military—Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard—with beautifully engraved silver medals. Initially released in a 1 oz. version, the series expanded to include a larger 2.5 oz. format, providing artists and engravers a broader canvas for more detailed, expressive designs. The Marine Corps medal stands out in the series for its dynamic imagery and intense symbolism, embodying the fierce combat spirit and battlefield excellence for which the Marines are known. This larger version enhances every nuance of the design, giving it an added layer of depth and presence that honors the gravity of the Corps' mission.
The obverse of the medal, designed by Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) artist Emily Damstra and sculpted by U.S. Mint Medallic Artist Michael Gaudioso, depicts a modern Marine in full combat gear deployed in a rugged environment. The Marine is shown advancing with a determined posture, weapon at the ready, representing vigilance, action, and combat readiness. Behind him, another Marine peers through binoculars, signifying reconnaissance and strategic oversight, while a pair of CH-53 helicopters fly overhead, supporting ground operations. The inscription “UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS” arcs above the dramatic scene, reinforcing the elite identity of the subject branch. The obverse design conveys the lethal versatility and enduring valor that define the Marine Corps' ethos.
The reverse features the official Marine Corps emblem: the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor. This globally recognized insignia symbolizes the Corps’ connection to country, worldwide reach, and naval traditions. The eagle represents the United States, the globe illustrates the Corps’ readiness to serve anywhere, and the anchor reflects the Marines’ naval heritage. Flanking the emblem are the core values of the Corps—“HONOR,” “COURAGE,” and “COMMITMENT”—inscribed in bold capital letters. The reverse design was created by AIP artist Benjamin Sowards and sculpted by Mint Medallic Artist John P. McGraw. This side of the medal presents a stately and solemn counterpart to the kinetic action of the obverse, grounding the piece in timeless institutional principles.
The medal measures 2 inches (50.8 mm) in diameter and weighs 77.76 grams (2.5 troy ounces) of .999 fine silver, placing it among the largest silver medals ever produced by the U.S. Mint. Its matte specimen finish creates a softly frosted appearance, with raised design elements standing out crisply against subtly textured fields. The combination of large scale and detailed relief work makes this piece a masterclass in modern medallic artistry. The weight and thickness of the medal add a tactile gravitas, and the muted finish enhances the artistic depth without the high polish of proof coinage.
Like other Armed Forces medals in the 2.5 oz. series, this Marine Corps issue was struck at the Philadelphia Mint. While it does not bear a mintmark, its origin is confirmed through official Mint documentation and packaging. Each medal is encapsulated in a black velvet-lined presentation case with a satin interior and protected by an outer sleeve bearing the Department of the Navy’s seal, under which the Marine Corps operates. A full-color certificate of authenticity accompanies the medal, describing the artists, symbolism, and production specifications. This elegant presentation elevates the medal to a fitting commemorative keepsake for ceremonies, gifts, and personal collections.
The mintage of the 2.5 oz. Marine Corps silver medal is naturally limited due to the Mint’s production scheduling and the specialized nature of the product. Although not capped by a strict mintage limit, these medals are produced in relatively small quantities compared to mainstream numismatic offerings. The scarcity of this size and type increases its desirability among both military collectors and silver investors. As one of the few officially sanctioned large silver medals dedicated to the Marine Corps, it has gained a loyal following among those seeking a comprehensive and dignified tribute to military service.
Collectors often choose to submit these medals for certification through third-party grading services such as NGC or PCGS. Most examples receive grades of SP69 or SP70, thanks to the Mint’s careful striking and handling. Graded medals can also receive special designations like “First Releases,” “Early Releases,” or “First Day of Issue,” often paired with military-themed labels or patriotic graphic inserts. For many, a certified example adds a layer of preservation and value, although original government packaging remains a highly desirable and traditional option, especially for those gifting the medal to a service member or veteran.
Symbolically, the Marine Corps 2.5 oz. medal captures the essence of what it means to serve in the Corps. The forward-leaning posture of the Marine on the obverse reflects the Corps’ offensive mindset and readiness to respond rapidly anywhere in the world. The presence of helicopters overhead and a secondary Marine on reconnaissance suggests coordination, mobility, and strategic awareness. Meanwhile, the reverse grounds the piece in the long-standing tradition of the Marine Corps, whose values have remained unchanged for generations. The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor is a badge of honor worn by all Marines, and its central place on this medal ensures that tradition remains at the forefront.
For Marines past and present, as well as their families and supporters, this medal is more than a silver artifact—it is a physical embodiment of sacrifice, honor, and identity. It serves equally well as a retirement gift, commemorative presentation, or collector’s centerpiece. Its heavy silver content also makes it appealing to those seeking bullion-style value with patriotic significance. Whether kept in pristine Mint packaging or certified and encapsulated, the medal will hold lasting value both as a tribute and a collector’s item.
In conclusion, the U.S. Mint Armed Forces 2.5 oz. Silver Medal honoring the United States Marine Corps is a bold and refined expression of martial excellence. From the compelling battlefield scene on the obverse to the timeless emblem and values on the reverse, every element speaks to the character, bravery, and brotherhood of the Corps. With its substantial silver content, exquisite detail, and powerful symbolism, this medal stands as a fitting salute to those who have earned the title “Marine.” It honors their legacy with beauty, weight, and unyielding pride.