Ruppersberger Honors Fort McHenry and the
War of 1812 with Star Spangled Banner Commemorative Coin

(Washington, D.C.)- Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Maryland 2nd) honored Fort McHenry and the War of 1812 with legislation that creates a commemorative Star Spangled Banner coin just in time for Independence Day.  Congressman Ruppersberger discussed this important legislation at Fort McHenry in Baltimore on Friday, June 29, 2007. 

After a 25-hour British bombardment of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key saw an enormous American flag proudly flying over the fort that was defending the City of Baltimore.  Key was inspired to write the “Star Spangled Banner” that eventually became America’s national anthem. 

“All over Maryland, people will be honoring the birth of our nation over the July 4th holiday. I think a Star Spangled Banner commemorative coin will be a wonderful way to also honor Fort McHenry and the War of 1812, two important Maryland contributions to our independence.  The United States Mint only creates two commemorative coins each year.  This will be a great honor for Maryland,” said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D – Maryland 2nd). 

The coin will be minted in 2012 in coordination with the 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812.   A portion of the proceeds will go to the Star Spangled Banner and War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission to plan, coordinate and facilitate programs and other efforts to commemorate the historic events associated with the War of 1812.  The legislation creating the Commission was introduced by Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Maryland 3rd).  Congressman Sarbanes also introduced legislation that would create the Star Spangled Banner National Historical Trail to officially mark some of the most historic sites from the War of 1812. 

“Maryland has a tremendous opportunity to lead in planning the celebration of the War of 1812 bi-centennial celebration,” said Congressman John Sarbanes, (D – Maryland 3rd). “I’m thrilled to join Congressman Ruppersberger in commemorating the rich history of our state.”

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