WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwire - May 1, 2008) - Ewire -- Eagle images and emblems have graced United States coins since the founding of our nation. However, "Challenger," an internationally known Bald Eagle ambassador with nearly two decades of educational public service, has become the first bird or animal in American history to have both its personal likeness and name featured on a legal tender coin.

It's a special honor and distinction that many other iconic animals -- such as Lassie, Secretariat, Flipper, Gentle Ben, Rin Tin Tin, Ling Ling or Shamu -- have not had, according to the not-for-profit American Eagle Foundation (www.eagles.org), caretaker of the trained 19 year-old free-flying eagle.

This rare first in U.S. coinage history gives both serious and novice numismatic enthusiasts a worthy and compelling reason to purchase one of the 750,000 limited edition Challenger coins before they sell out, according to the conservation group.

"This beautiful collectable coin makes a wonderful and lasting gift for our children and grandchildren," AEF President Al Cecere said. "And a portion of the sales price from each coin will help protect the Bald Eagle, a precious national treasure, for generations to come."

The recently minted Challenger eagle commemorative coin went on sale on January 15th and will be available for purchase from the United States Mint (www.usmint.gov) until December 31, 2008 or until it sells out, whichever comes first.

The reverse (back) side of the coin features Challenger's portrait and name, while the obverse (front) side has the image of two downy sibling eaglets snuggled against an unhatched egg.

For the full release please follow this link: http://www.ewire.com/display.cfm/Wire_ID/4693

Contact Information: American Eagle Foundation Web Site: http://www.eagles.org E-mail: Phone: 865-429-0157