Operation Iraqi Freedom has become politically and militarily more complex since it began in March 2003. The near-instant triumph of the original ground campaign has long-since given way to the harsh realities of urban warfare, in which hidden dangers lurk behind every corner.

But despite all the challenges, both seen and unforeseen, the primary objective has remained unchanged – to train and equip Iraqi police and military personnel to continue the work begun by Allied forces.

This has been the central focus of Multi-National Force-Iraq (MNF-I) – the name given to American-led foreign forces there– since Saddam Hussein was deposed and a nation of 26 million people embarked on the bumpy road to democracy in 2003.

According to its mission statement, MNF-I - in partnership with the Iraqi Government:
"…conducts full-spectrum counter-insurgency operations to isolate and neutralize former regime extremists and foreign terrorists, and organizes, trains, and equips Iraqi security forces in order to create a security environment that permits the completion of the UNSCR 1546 process on schedule." 

Operating under a mandate from the United Nations, a mandate recently extended through the end of 2007, the brave men and women of MNF-I have never wavered from their goal to help the Iraqi military stand on its own. It is clear that, from the very beginning, the leaders of this force have focused squarely on cementing the bond between Iraqi and Allied troops to achieve this goal.

Early in 2004, MNF-I commanders created a special coin to symbolize the collaboration between Iraqi and allied forces. Over the past two years, whenever the opportunity has arisen to recognize exceptional achievement or valor, MNF-I commanders have presented this coin to deserving recipients. Carried with pride by those who have put their lives on the line to help secure Iraq's future, the coin has become the tangible emblem of an historic partnership between two military forces and two nations.  

The design for the shield-shaped, antique bronze coin came from the official MNF-I patch. Featured on the front is the image of a winged bull with a human face, depicted beneath a seven-pointed star. The bull-like figure, which is drawn from Assyrian mythology, symbolizes assurance of protection, and recalls Iraq's historic link to a great empire. The star represents the seven major ethnic groups which make up Iraq's diverse population (Sunni, Shia, Kurd, Turkoman, Assyrian, Yazidi, and Armenian). Imprinted on the reverse beneath an outline of Iraq – color-filled to resemble the Iraqi national flag – is the phrase "United Commitment." This phrase is also rendered in Arabic on the coin.

Now, a coin featuring many of the same design elements as the one given out to members of the Iraqi security forces is available to the general public. Northwest Territorial Mint, the company that created the original coin at the request of top MNF-I leadership, has designed a similar coin to commemorate the heroic efforts of American forces and their Iraqi counterparts. This coin is currently available for purchase at the company's online store and can also be ordered by calling the toll-free number displayed at right.

Just like the original, this new coin features the same array of intriguing symbols on its obverse (heads) side. In addition to the winged-bull of Assyrian mythology and the seven-pointed star, there is a pair of crossed scimitars, symbolizing strength, and palm fronds, representing prosperity. In contrast to the original design, however, this highly evocative imagery is set against a pitch-black backdrop on the new coin, which accents each element even more.

Though the replication of a patch design is often used in the creation of military challenge coins, this coin's distinctive shape, contoured surface, and stark symbolism give it a unique power. And in the context of an ongoing war, this replica of an authentic challenge coin takes on added significance. It serves as a moving and permanent memorial to those who have dedicated their lives to bringing freedom to Iraq, despite the presence of overwhelming obstacles. Moreover, it is a tangible reminder of the unprecedented alliance between the United States and the nation of Iraq, a partnership vital to America's interests and one on which Iraq's future may heavily depend.

As new battlefield plans emerge and goals are redefined in Iraq for 2007, this coin reflects the staunch commitment made more than three years ago by the members of Multi-National Force-Iraq to fight until the mission is complete.

While it may be difficult to judge the effectiveness of these coins in enhancing performance or boosting morale, it is safe to say that they will be treasured by those fighting for democracy in Iraq long after American and Allied Forces have gone.