It seems that the push for a commemorative coin—gold and silver—from the U.S. Mint to mark the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks has encountered a significant obstacle, according to sources.
This initiative, aimed at generating nearly $6 million to support the budget-strapped 9/11 Memorial and Museum at the World Trade Center, has only managed to attract support from 184 members of the House since its introduction by Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) in March. Unfortunately, it has stalled in committee, falling short of the necessary votes.
Despite a mix of bipartisan backing from local representatives, including Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), Andrew Garbarino (R-Long Island), and Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), the bill hasn’t found traction nationwide, particularly among Republican lawmakers. Only 52 of the 218 Republican members in the House have signed on as co-sponsors—most supporters are Democrats.
As we approach nearly 25 years since 2,977 lives were lost to terrorist acts on September 11, 2001, families of the victims are left pondering if there’s a sense of indifference at play.
Monica Eiken-Murphy, who lost her husband, Michael, a bond trader at the World Trade Center, expressed her dismay: “These representatives should be more aware and prepared, especially with the anniversary approaching.”
She added, “Michael’s remains are still not with me. The memorial is like a safe haven.”
Joanne Arriola, a member of the New York City Council, stated she is surprised that the bill has stalled. She pointed out that the U.S. Mint was recently authorized to produce a coin for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“It’s just baffling that any member of Congress, especially those who espouse patriotic values, would not support this,” Arriola remarked.
Monica Eiken-Murphy emphasized her willingness to buy the proposed coin to support the memorial, stating, “This should be a unanimous decision. We easily passed the FIFA World Cup coin bill. There’s really no justification for this delay.”
John Feal, a well-known advocate for 9/11 responders, also raised concerns about Congress failing to fund mandates that commemorate significant events. However, he mentioned that securing additional funding for 9/11-related health programs, which are running low on resources, is currently more urgent.
The proposed coins under Goldman’s bill would include up to 50,000 gold coins and 400,000 silver coins, potentially generating $5.75 million for the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.
Goldman expressed a desire to keep the momentum for the 9/11 Commemorative Coin Act alive, determined to ensure that the victims and survivors of that tragic day are always remembered.
