Vandenberg AFB

Located in Lompoc, California, Vandenberg Air Force Base is under the jurisdiction of the Air Force Space Command. Vandenberg Air Force base will serve as one of two Pacific bases to defend against possible North Korean or Iranian missile threats, using interceptor missiles that will launch to take down intermediate-range ballistic missiles that pose a threat to the United States. Established in 1941, the base is named in honor of former Air Force Chief of Staff General Hoyt Vandenberg.

The primary function of Vandenberg AFB is as a Department of Defense space and missile testing base. Its mission is to place satellites into orbit from the West Coast using expendable boosters like the Pegasus, Taurus, Minotaur, Atlas V, and Delta IV, as well as reusable boosters like SpaceX's Falcon 9. Wing personnel also support the Service's LGM-30G Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Force Development Evaluation program. Vandenberg Air Force Base handles launch pad facilities for SpaceX.

Minted in nickel and brushed with an antique finish, this coin features exacting detail and beautiful enameling in various shades of blue, white and black. The obverse shows a map of the state of California, the Air Force seal, and 3 missiles ready to be launched. The reverse shows the seals of the 30th Space Wing, the Air Force Space Command, the Fourteenth Air Force and the Joint Space Operations Center, all tenant organizations at Vandenberg Air Force Base.