Our story

It started with a lesson for two boys

How one Tampa family turned gratitude into 88,000 thank yous.

Deb Benson's young sons Brock and Max thank a young airman in 2007, the moment that started Grateful American Coin

Since 2007

In the summer of 2007, we wanted to teach our sons who our true heroes are: the men and women who have served or are serving our country. Grateful American Coin was founded on a simple belief, that out of a deep sense of gratitude, each of us should do what we can, however small, to honor those who serve. A coin pressed into a hand is a small thing, but the gesture can mean a great deal.

By November 2007 we had established a nonprofit, designed our own coin, and set up a website. We are supported 100% by volunteers, and net proceeds benefit veterans.

Eighteen years and more than 88,000 coins later, the mission has not changed: give every grateful American a tangible way to say thank you, and turn that gratitude into something a hero can keep.

The tradition

“That is the power of a simple thank you.”

Carry a thank you

U.S. DoD photo (public domain). Appearance does not imply endorsement.

Stories of gratitude

The moments the coin was made for

A soft-spoken young man, head still shaven and sporting a prosthetic leg, held a door for my family in San Antonio. I handed him a Grateful American Coin and told him I was one of millions of grateful Americans. His eyes filled with tears: 'You don't know how much this means to me.'

Mikeal R. Morgan, Cypress, TX
I noticed tears were flowing and then he said, 'Thank you. This will be my second most valued possession.' His most valued possession, embedded in his wallet, was a satin black coin inscribed Navy SEAL Team 2. Enough said.

R. Garrett, Nick Nicholas Ford, Inverness, FL
I handed a coin to a very young man at the airport who was being deployed. His mother began to cry. I walked away hoping I had added a lift to their spirits that morning, and to make sure he knew he was appreciated.

Dan, Lake Worth, FL