As a challenge coin design company, creating the GTMO Bay coin was both an honor and an exciting challenge! We knew from the start that this piece had to capture the unique spirit of Guantanamo Bay—the history, the resilience, and the community that defines this storied naval base. We wanted every element of the coin to tell a story, from the license plate-inspired shape to the carefully chosen dates that mark GTMO’s significance in U.S. history. This coin is a keepsake and a piece of GTMO’s legacy that our team put its heart into bringing to life. We approached the design of this coin with the goal of capturing GTMO Bay's incredible legacy.
GTMO Bay, Cuba
Guantanamo Bay is more than just a location—it’s a world of its own with layers of history. What makes GTMO’s landscape and people so unique is its tropical isolation to its symbolism in U.S. military history. Guantanamo Bay, or GTMO as it’s often called, is a place that feels like its own world. It’s more than a naval base; it’s a symbol of endurance and transformation over time. With rich, complex history woven into every corner, GTMO represents decades of military presence and international relations, from its roots in the late 19th century to its modern-day reputation. Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, it’s a place of both beauty and challenge. The base and its landscape give a sense of isolation yet solidarity among those stationed there—a reminder of the unique role GTMO plays in both U.S. history and military operations.
Navy Base at GTMO Bay, Cuba
There is an amazing Navy base at GTMO, and it is unlike any other. Established at the southern tip of Cuba, it’s a unique blend of military structure and tropical surroundings. The base has been a strategic and sometimes controversial U.S. stronghold for over a century, and life here can feel isolated, which builds a strong camaraderie among personnel. Sailors and Marines find themselves in a place where they’re called to serve in an entirely different climate, with temperatures as hot as its political significance. For many stationed here, it’s a challenging yet unforgettable experience, filled with a sense of purpose that leaves a lasting impression.
Marines at GTMO
In the midst of GTMO's structure and scenery, the Marines bring their own unique resilience. Known for their readiness and resilience. Life at this base, where training and security missions keep them sharp, demands focus and adaptability. Their presence ensures that GTMO remains secure, and their tight-knit community echoes the unique brotherhood and pride that define Marine Corps life.
GTMO Founding Dates
What would GTMO be without its foundational dates? The story of GTMO truly began in 1898 and took form in February 1903. In the year 1898, the Spanish-American War the U.S.’s entered into the Caribbean, positioning itself as a significant regional power. Then, in February 1903, an agreement was signed, giving the U.S. control over Guantanamo Bay as a strategic naval station, cementing GTMO’s role in U.S. military history. These dates are integral to GTMO’s enduring role in U.S. military history and represent the beginning of a legacy that has lasted well over a century. We couldn’t design this coin without a nod to these key moments in GTMO’s timeline.
License Plates in GTMO Bay
Of course, we wanted the coin’s shape to make a statement. GTMO’s “license plates” are one of its many distinct characteristics, adorning cars and symbolizing the base’s unique nature. Choosing a license plate shape for this coin was a deliberate nod to that, capturing both the novelty and pride that come with serving at GTMO Bay. The choice of a license plate isn’t just about practicality—it’s a tribute to GTMO’s distinctive nature. This choice adds personality to the coin, making it an instant representation of GTMO Bay.
GTMO Bay Navy Base Challenge Coin
Designing this GTMO Bay navy base challenge coin was an absolute blast! From the start, we knew we wanted something that could stand out as both a symbol of history and a bit of fun for anyone stationed at GTMO. What better way to capture that spirit than with a custom rectangle shaped like a license plate? We went all out on the details, giving the coin a silver finish that has the same sleek look of metal plates. The plate itself reads “C-1898”—a nod to the year the U.S. made its first big moves in the Caribbean—and we added “USNB” across the top with “GTMO Bay, Cuba” at the bottom to make sure there’s no mistaking this coin’s roots.
One of our favorite parts was adding the "validation stickers" for the dates; here, the sticker isn’t just for registration—it’s for history! February 1903 marks the start of U.S. control over Guantanamo Bay, so we turned it into the “registration sticker” on the plate. This little touch adds a layer of nostalgia, like a badge of GTMO’s unique and long-standing history. With a pop of red on the stickers, this side of the coin practically jumps out of your hand with its detailed design.
The reverse side keeps the fun going with a silver etching of the Navy base’s front gates, bringing out the pride and tradition of this iconic base. We even added the American flag in color to show where it all started, plus alternating red and gold on the entry blockade to give a shout-out to the USMC. Every part of this coin is crafted to capture the feeling of serving at GTMO—it’s got pride, history, and a little flair, and we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out.
The final design really captures the personality of GTMO Bay. Each detail, from the “C-1898” plate number nodding to GTMO’s historic roots, to the February 1903 registration sticker marking the start of U.S. control, adds meaning and memory. On the flip side, the etched image of the Navy base front gates gives a glimpse of the place so many Navy and Marine personnel call home for a season, complete with vibrant touches on the flag and USMC blockade.
Creating this coin allowed us to show GTMO’s past and present, and it’s one of those projects that we’re truly proud of. We hope that for those who hold it, the coin becomes a touchstone of their time at GTMO—a reminder of the community, service, and history they were a part of. Here’s to honoring the journey and the legacy of GTMO Bay!
Image for reference:https://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2013/09/how-guantanamo-bay-became-the-place-the-us-keeps-detainees/279308/
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