About the Chamber’s Free Enterprise Award and Commemorative Challenge Coin

The Chamber proudly presents the Free Enterprise Commemorative Challenge Coin—a symbol of leadership, entrepreneurship, and community spirit. This honor celebrates milestones such as new business openings, and outstanding contributions to our local economy.

Each coin represents the values that drive prosperity: innovation, resilience, and a commitment to free enterprise. Along with the coin, recipients receive a certificate of recognition, making this a lasting tribute to their impact.

This award is extended to new businesses, elected officials, and community champions who advocate for pro-business policies,  and help strengthen the voice of commerce at every level.

The Challenge Coin is more than a token—it’s a reminder of the thriving spirit that keeps our community moving forward.

What is a Challenge Coin?

To an outsider, a challenge coin might look like nothing more than a fancy collectible. While these coins are indeed collector’s items, they are also filled with significant meaning. Receiving a challenge coin is an honor, symbolizing free enterprise at work in our community and inspiring camaraderie and pride.

 With this commemorative coin comes the civic responsibility or challenge to help build a stronger community and support the Chamber’s efforts to create a vibrant business climate that preserves economic freedom for future generations.

Symbolism on the Coin

The American Eagle/Free Enterprise Commemorative Challenge Coin is a physical symbol marking significant milestones such as the opening of a new business, exceptional service, and expressions of gratitude. Our Founding Fathers chose the American Eagle as the nation’s emblem, representing fierce beauty, proud independence, strength, freedom, and the spirit of free enterprise.

The coin is engraved with the words “Strength,” “Freedom,” and “Pride” and features the American flag on the reverse side, assuring us that democracy and free enterprise are alive and well. The coin is crafted from one ounce of pure copper, symbolizing Arizona, the “Copper State.”

Why a Copper Coin?

Copper is a cornerstone of Arizona’s history and economy. Since 1910, the state has been the nation’s leading producer of copper. Today, 68% of all the copper produced in the U.S. comes from Arizona. The copper star at the center of the Arizona flag highlights the industry’s importance to the Grand Canyon State.

History: The First Recipient

Rick Gray is a notable American politician who has made significant contributions to Arizona’s legislative landscape. He served in both the Arizona Senate and the Arizona House of Representatives, representing District 9 from January 10, 2011, to January 14, 2013, and District 21 from January 14, 2013, to January 9, 2017. Gray continued his service in the Arizona Senate from January 27, 2018, to January 9, 2023, and held the position of Majority Leader from 2019 to 2023.

Gray was the first elected official to be endorsed by the Chamber of Commerce, highlighting his unwavering support for the business community. Throughout his tenure, he consistently achieved exemplary scores on the Chamber Scorecard, reflecting his dedication to business-friendly policies. In addition to his political career, Gray has been a small business owner and a college instructor, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering economic growth and education. Rick was the first recipient of the Free Enterprise Award in 2022. 

Coin Specifications

• Gross Weight: 1 ounce (28.35 grams)
• Material: 0.999 Pure Copper
• Diameter: 39 mm (1.54 inches)