Honoring Those Who Served
Americans are justifiably proud of their military. They have beaten insurmountable odds in numerous conflicts and have always been there to protect and defend our allies. 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollars were issued to honor the great personal sacrifices made by our veterans who were permanently disabled in service to our country. These American heroes deserve our praise, recognition, thanks, and respect. Disabled veterans include veterans living with service-related injuries or illnesses.
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data released in 2025 (reflecting August 2024 data), about 5.5 million veterans had a service-connected disability. Of the 2.7 million who were employed, 36.5 percent worked in federal, state, or local government. Roughly one-fifth (20.5 percent) held federal jobs, compared with 7.9 percent of veterans without a service-connected disability and 2.1 percent of nonveterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) supports these veterans through monthly disability compensation, specialized health care, vocational training, and housing assistance. Programs such as Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) provide job training, résumé assistance, and workplace accommodations, including remote work options and assistive technology.
2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar Design & Distribution Details
The obverse of the 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar was designed and sculpted by Don Everhart. It depicts the legs and boots of three US military personnel, one of whom is missing a leg and is on crutches. Above that image is a banner that reads “THEY STOOD UP FOR US”. Below where they stand is another break on which is inscribed “IN GOD WE TRUST”, with the date of striking “2010” below and the word “LIBERTY” adorning the lower periphery.
The reverse design was created by Joseph Menna. It features a wreath with a “Forget-Me-Not” flower as the bow. This flower gained popularity as a symbol of disabled military personnel as early as World War 1. The oak branches that create the wreath symbolize strength. Inside the wreath is the inscription, “TAKE THIS MOMENT TO HONOR OUR DISABLED DEFENDERS OF FREEDOM”. The upper periphery has “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”, while “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and the denomination “ONE DOLLAR” cover the lower periphery.
These Commemorative Silver Dollars were struck in both uncirculated and proof finishes, and both versions were struck at the West Point minting facility. Between both types of coins, Congress authorized a maximum of 350,000 coins to be struck. Both types of 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollars were offered to the public individually.
(A 2010-W American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar, Uncirculated, Obverse [left], Reverse [right].)
(A 2010-W American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar, Proof, Obverse [left], Reverse [right].)
A $10 surcharge on each 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Silver Dollar supports the Disabled Veterans’ LIFE Memorial Foundation. The proceeds help fund construction of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial in Washington, D.C., which Congress authorized in 2000. Add this coin to your collection and discover other U.S. silver modern commemorative coins.
