SARATOGA, N.Y. - Today, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), Chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, celebrated the U.S. Mint's release of its 2026 Native American $1 Coin in commemoration of Oneida Indian Nation's Revolutionary War heroine Polly Cooper.
"I am proud to see the U.S. Mint honoring the remarkable patriot Polly Cooper of the Oneida Indian Nation with this year’s Native American $1 Coin. As a born and raised Upstate New Yorker, it is especially meaningful to see our shared history celebrated in this way. The Oneida Indian Nation bravely fought alongside the Continental Army and provided critical support for the patriots throughout the Revolutionary War—including the food and supplies Polly Cooper carried to Valley Forge—making the Oneida people among America’s very first allies," said Stefanik.
"The Oneida people became America’s First Allies on some of the bloodiest battlefields of the Revolutionary War," said Oneida Indian Nation Representative Ray Halbritter. "One-third of our ancestors at that time were lost to these conflicts, yet their lives were given proudly for the right of all to sovereignty and self-determination. As we look ahead to the 250th anniversary of the United States, the recognition of this legacy and of Polly Cooper’s contributions to serves as a great source of pride for our people, as well as for all Upstate New Yorkers and all Americans who strive to uphold these principles."
Stefanik is proudly ushering in America’s 250th anniversary as New York and communities nationwide prepare for patriotic celebrations this July.
