Space coins and medals serve multiple purposes, including commemorating space missions and achievements, promoting space exploration and education, and raising funds for space programs.

NASA possesses a vast collection of space coins and medals, showcasing the agency's rich history and achievements in space exploration.

The launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957 marked a pivotal moment in space exploration, leading to the issuance of the first space coin.

The American Eagle gold coin, issued in 2011, commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing and features a detailed depiction of the lunar module.

Space medals are typically produced using a combination of gold, silver, and bronze, with some medals featuring intricate designs and enamel accents.

The Alan Shepard Medal was issued to honor the first human spacewalk, conducted by Alan Shepard during the Mercury-Atlas 9 mission in 1961.

Space coins and medals offer multiple educational benefits, including providing historical context, promoting scientific literacy, and inspiring future generations to pursue STEM careers.

The Canadian Voyageur dollar coin, issued in 2003, features an image of the Hubble Space Telescope as part of its design.

The Apollo 11 commemorative medal holds significance for being awarded to the Apollo 11 astronauts, designed by NASA's chief artist, and featuring the first human footprint on the moon.

The NASA Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to space exploration and the advancement of space science.

The Space Foundation's Space Achievement Awards serve multiple purposes, including honoring individuals and organizations, raising funds for space education, and promoting public awareness of space exploration.

The American Eagle platinum coin, issued in 2008, features a depiction of the International Space Station as part of its design.

Studying space coins and medals offers multiple educational benefits, including insights into historical events, appreciation for art and craftsmanship, and fostering a sense of global community in space exploration.

The NASA Astronaut Medal is awarded to astronauts who have completed spacewalks or performed other significant duties during space missions.

The Space Shuttle Challenger commemorative coin holds significance for honoring the Challenger astronauts, being designed by the Challenger Center for Space Science Education, and featuring a depiction of the Challenger space shuttle.