The 2011 Medal of Honor $5 Gold Coin will be struck to both proof and uncirculated condition by the US Mint. It is part of one of two commemorative coin series to be issued by the Mint during that year.

The strikes were authorized by Congress as part of the Medal of Honor Commemorative Coin Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-91). According to the act, the 2011 Medal of Honor $5 Gold Coin will a feature a design "emblematic of the traditions, legacy, and heritage of the Medal of Honor, and the distinguished service of its recipients in the Nation’s history." Also authorized as part of the series was a Silver Dollar which will also be struck by the Mint in both proof and uncirculated condition.

The medal was initially created by Congress in 1861. It is the nation’s highest award for valor given to a member of the US Military for heroic actions performed while engaged in action against an enemy force.

On the obverse of the 2011 Medal of Honor $5 Gold Coin is an image of the original Medal of Honor authorized by Congress in 1861. Surrounding the medal are the inscriptions of LIBERTY, 1861, 2011, IN GOD WE TRUST and MEDAL OF HONOR. The obverse was designed by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Joseph Menna.

The reverse of the coin was designed by Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) Master Designer Joel Iskowitz and sculpted by Sculptor-Engraver Michael Gaudioso to show the mythical figure of Minerva standing with a shield in her right hand and the Union flag in her left. Surrounding Minerva are the inscriptions of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, $5 and E PLURIBUS UNUM.

Surcharges of $10 per $5 gold coin sold will be forwarded to the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation to help finance the educational, scholarship and outreach programs of the Foundation.

The US Mint will also be releasing the 2011 US Army Commemorative Coin series during the same year as these strikes.