Congratulations, Matt Burns
We are proud to announce Matt Burns as the grand prize winner of the 2026 Veteran Artist Challenge Coin competition, presented by Hanks For Our Troops, the Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP), and the Bob Woodruff Foundation. Chosen from our nationwide military artist community call, Burns's winning submission highlights the iconic military canteen cup, honoring field coffee traditions for America's 250th anniversary. Along with a $500 artist grant, Burns will see the canteen cup design cast into this year's official commemorative coin.
Why This Coin Matters
Three pillars unite this campaign — coffee, country, and community.
The Coffee Bridge
Hanks For Our Troops was built on the belief that a great cup of coffee can bridge the gap between civilian and military life. This coin carries that mission in metal.
America 250 Legacy
Launching on Veterans Day 2026, this coin becomes part of America's 250th anniversary — a permanent artifact of service, art, and national pride.
Ethos Alignment
Hanks For Our Troops, ASAP, and the Bob Woodruff Foundation share a common belief: Veterans deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated. This coin puts that belief into the hands of the people who carry it.
All finalists receive recognition and promotion through our partner networks.
Campaign Timeline
Key dates from submission to Veterans Day launch.
Submission Window
Open call for designs from Veterans, military spouses, and family members
Finalist Selection
Panel reviews and selects 5 finalists
Production Order
Winning design sent to mint
Winner Reveal
Public announcement of the winning artist
Veterans Day Launch
Official coin release — Veterans Day 2026
Submission Window
Open call for designs from Veterans, military spouses, and family members
Finalist Selection
Panel reviews and selects 5 finalists
Production Order
Winning design sent to mint
Winner Reveal
Public announcement of the winning artist
Veterans Day Launch
Official coin release — Veterans Day 2026
Presented By
Three organizations united by a commitment to those who serve.
Hanks For Our Troops®
Damn Good Coffee. Damn Good Cause.
At HANKS, we're on a mission to create goods that do good. We honor the patriotism and services of our Veterans and their families by giving all profits to organizations who will provide them with critical support and resources.
Armed Services Arts Partnership
Empowering Veterans through the arts.
ASAP provides free art and comedy classes for Veterans and their loved ones, creating an inclusive and thriving community where those who've served gain resilience, confidence, and connection.
Bob Woodruff Foundation
Stand Up for Heroes.
The Bob Woodruff Foundation ensures that our nation's Veterans, service members, and their families — those who stood for us — have stable and successful futures.
Congratulations, Matt Burns
The winning canteen cup design will be minted as the official 2026 Hanks For Our Troops challenge coin, launching on Veterans Day — November 11, 2026.