USS Maine Coin

The USS Maine was a second-class pre-dreadnought battleship, commissioned in 1895. It was one of the first American battleships and a symbol of the nation’s growing naval power. In January 1898, the Maine was sent to Havana Harbor, Cuba, to protect American interests during the Cuban War of Independence from Spain.

On the evening of February 15, 1898, the Maine was ripped apart by a massive internal explosion and sank, resulting in the deaths of 266 sailors. The cause of the explosion was never definitively proven, but American newspapers and public opinion immediately blamed Spain. The rallying cry “Remember the Maine! To Hell with Spain!” propelled the United States into the Spanish-American War just two months later.

We were ordered to produce a beautiful piece of custom challenge coin for the USS Maine to commemorate one of their commanding officers. The coin’s design is somewhat classic and has a vintage vibe, with the illustration of the ship and its crews on the front side of the coin, the US Navy symbol relief on the back, and the bold rope pattern etched on the rims of the coin.

On the bottom of the front side, there’s an inscription “Dirigo”, which is the official motto of the state of Maine. It’s Latin for “I direct,” “I guide,” or “I lead.” It was chosen in 1820 and reflects the state’s role of having its stars on the polestar in the state seal, guiding the nation.

If you want a gorgeous custom challenge coin like this one for your crew or units, reach us at Embleholics now, and we’ll help you step-by-step to make it a reality.