Auburn, Washington – After nearly four decades on active duty, the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) is standing down, just as a new commemorative coin created in the ship's honor is pressed into service.

Northwest Territorial Mint, a private mint with 22-plus years of experience creating coins and medallions for all branches of the U.S. Military, has created a special commemorative medallion in recognition of the USS John F. Kennedy's retirement. 

The 1¾-inch medallion, struck in brass and finished in antique bronze, features a detailed sculpt of the 1,000 foot-long warship on its obverse (head side); depicted above the ship is a rendering of the late President John F. Kennedy next to the phrase, "Defending freedom in its hour of darkness." The reverse bears the official crest and shield of the USS John F. Kennedy, an emblem of great significance for the ship's past and present crew, or any Navy sailor or maritime enthusiast.