Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar program ending - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar program ending

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COLUMBUS, GA (WTVM) -

The last chance to order the 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar from the United States Mint is just three weeks away.

The National Infantry Foundation, which receives $10 for every coin sold, is hoping the holiday gift season will give the program a last minute, much needed boost.

The 2012 Infantry Soldier Silver Dollar, approved by Congress and one of only two such commemorative coins minted by the United States Mint this year, honors the Infantryman and celebrates the establishment of the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center. The program launched in February and will close out December 17. Any unsold silver dollars will be melted down.

To date, approximately 194,000 Infantry Silver Dollars have been sold. Legislation authorized a maximum minting of 350,000.

"We'd love to have sold every one of those 350,000 coins," National Infantry Foundation President Ben Williams said. "The best we can do is make sure every Infantryman knows it exists before it's too late to purchase one."

The National Infantry Museum is not funded by any state or federal program. It does not charge admission. It relies on donations and programs like the Infantry Silver Dollar to cover operating costs.

The Foundation hopes Infantrymen – both active duty and retired – and the people who support them will consider purchasing the coins for holiday gifts.

"This is a gift that truly will be cherished," Williams said. "Equally important to the recipient will be the knowledge that the coin is helping the National Infantry Museum fulfill its mission of honoring Soldiers."

The proof version of the coin sells for $54.95; the uncirculated version sells for $49.95. There are a few remaining Defender of Freedom sets available for $51.95.

Orders for this commemorative coin will be taken on the United States Mint's website only until 5 p.m. December 17, 2012. A limited supply of the proof version of the coin is available at the Soldier Store inside the National Infantry Museum.

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