Fallen Firefighters Honored with Commemorative Coins in 2026; Sales to Fund National Foundation

This legislation, the "National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Coin Act," directs the U.S. Mint to produce a series of limited-edition coins in 2026. Specifically, it authorizes up to 50,000 $5 gold coins, 400,000 $1 silver coins, and 750,000 half-dollar clad coins (Sec. 102). The core purpose isn't just commemoration; it's also a fundraising initiative designed to benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Minting the Tribute: Coins with a Cause

The coins are mandated to feature designs representing the service and sacrifice of U.S. firefighters, finalized after consultation with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and arts commissions (Sec. 103). While technically legal tender, these coins are intended as numismatic items – collectibles valued more for their design and rarity than their face value (Sec. 102). Production is strictly limited to the calendar year 2026, available in both uncirculated and proof qualities (Sec. 104). This limited run aims to enhance their collectible appeal.

How the Coins Generate Funds

Here’s the key part for the Foundation: each coin sale includes a mandatory surcharge. This is an additional fee baked into the price, specifically earmarked for charity. The surcharges are set at $35 for each $5 gold coin, $10 for each $1 silver coin, and $5 for each half-dollar coin (Sec. 106). The U.S. Mint will sell the coins at a price covering their face value, the production costs, and this surcharge (Sec. 105). All collected surcharge revenue is directed straight to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support its programs honoring fallen firefighters and assisting their families (Sec. 106).

Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility

Importantly, the bill includes financial safeguards. It mandates that the entire operation—from design to minting and sales—must not result in any net cost to the U.S. government (Sec. 107). Before the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation receives any surcharge funds, the U.S. Treasury must recoup all its expenses associated with producing and issuing the coins. This ensures that taxpayer funds aren't subsidizing the program; the revenue from coin sales (excluding the surcharge) covers the costs first. The Foundation will also be subject to audits regarding its use of the funds received (Sec. 106).