Marines Raising The Flag IWO JIMA 1945 Challenge Coin

Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima is an iconic photograph of six United States Marines raising the U.S. flag atop Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in the final stages of the Pacific War. The photograph, taken by Joe Rosenthal of the Associated Press on February 23, 1945, was first published in Sunday newspapers two days later and reprinted in thousands of publications. It was the only photograph to win the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in the same year as its publication, and was later used for the construction of the Marine Corps War Memorial in 1954, which was dedicated to honor all Marines who died in service since 1775.  The photograph has come to be regarded in the United States as one of the most significant and recognizable images of World War II.

Iwo Jima is a volcanic island, shaped like a trapezoid. Marines on the island described it as “a large, gray pork chop”. The island was heavily fortified, and the invading Marines suffered high casualties. Politically, the island is part of the prefecture of Tokyo. It would be the first Japanese homeland soil to be captured by the Americans, and it was a matter of honor for the Japanese to prevent its capture.

The island is dominated by Mount Suribachi, a 546-foot dormant volcanic cone at the southern tip of the island. Tactically, the top of Suribachi was one of the most important locations on the island. The American effort concentrated on isolating and capturing Suribachi first, a goal that was achieved on February 23, four days after the battle began. Despite capturing Suribachi, the battle continued to rage for many days, and the island would not be declared “secure” until 31 days later, on March 26. 

This coin salutes the service of all U.S. Marines, past and present, who have contributed to the proud legacy of America’s most celebrated fighting force. The obverse contains a montage that symbolizes the overwhelming power and enduring commitment of the Marines throughout history. The reverse features the seal of the United States Marine Corps.

Minted from solid bronze, and finished in frosted proof-like, two tones, shiny silver and shiny gold.

Each coin measures 1 3/4 inches (44mm) Round.