USCGC Healy (WAGB-20)

The USCGC Healy (WAGB-20) plays a critical role in researching and protecting American and humanitarian interests in Polar Regions. An icebreaking cutter, she is tasked with supporting a wide range of research activities as well as supporting other crucial missions in the icy north.

Named after Michael Augustine Healy, the US captain whose career garnered praise and respect from the peoples of Alaska, the Healy and her crew uphold the same commitment and dedication to service that was a hallmark of Healy’s career. Michael Healy was the first person of African-American decent to captain a ship of the United States, and his long career surveying the Alaskan coastline remains a fine example of how an officer conducts himself. Healy’s compassion for the native population was perfectly expressed in his standing order: “Never make a promise to a native you do not intend to keep to the letter.”

Commissioned on 21 August 2000, the USCGC Healy has a displacement of approximately 16,000 long tons and carries a crew of 85 officers and enlisted personnel, as well as 50 civilian scientists. Due to its multitude of support capabilities, the Healy is ideally suited for a variety of polar missions including logistics, search and rescue, ship escort, environmental protection, and enforcement of laws and treaties.

Minted from solid bronze, using special deep-relief coining dies, and hand-finished with an antique patina for exceptional quality and detail, this coin pays tribute to the USCGC Healy and salutes the exceptional service of her crew. The obverse contains the USCGC Healy sailing through arctic waters, a polar bear looking on. The reverse displays the seal of the Healy, over a topographic representation of the polar north. Both the obverse and reverse are imbued with a bold enamel design