Description
U.S. Route 66 or U.S. Highway 66 (US 66 or Route 66) was one of the original highways in the United States Numbered Highway System. It was established on November 11, 1926, with road signs erected the following year. The highway, which became one of the most famous roads in the United States, ran from Chicago, Illinois, through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before terminating in Santa Monica in Los Angeles County, California, covering a total of 2,448 miles (3,940 km).
It was recognized in popular culture by both the 1946 hit song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” and the Route 66 television series, which aired on CBS from 1960 to 1964. It was also featured in the Disney/Pixar animated feature film franchise Cars. In John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath (1939), the highway symbolizes escape, loss, and the hope of a new beginning; Steinbeck dubbed it the Mother Road. Other designations and nicknames include the Will Rogers Highway and the Main Street of America.
In 2026, this mainstay of America celebrates its 100th Anniversary, so make sure to get this exclusive commemorative challenge coin.
The obverse of the coin features a map of the world-famous route on the United States, detailing from Los Angeles to Chicago, with the interior of a classic convertible car shown driving forward on the path. The reverse boldly declares the anniversary, with the 100th Anniversary, with the iconic highway sign emblazoned with Semi–Cloisonné white enamel and black soft-enamel to create a rich contrast.
Each coin measures 1 3-4″ inch (44mm) in diameter.
