United States Mint Can Now Fine for Misuse of Agency's Name, Symbols, Emblems

The United States Mint announced on Tuesday in a press release that it can now fine companies and other entities that misuse the agency's or U.S. Department of the Treasury's names, symbols, and emblems. This move comes with the intent of protecting consumers and coin collectors. This new regulation was approved by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and it authorizes the United States Mint to exact civil fines against any companies or persons who use the Department of the Treasury's or United States Mint's names, emblems, or symbols so as to convey to consumers the false impression of there being a sponsorship, endorsement, or association with the two government agencies.

"This regulation will not affect the vast majority of individuals and businesses selling coins or coin products," said United States Mint Director Ed Moy in the press release. "The rule will create a higher level of consumer awareness, by defending the integrity of the United States Mint's names, emblems, and symbols," Moy continued.

According to the press release, the United States Mint now has the right to fine $5,000 for each and every incident of misuse of the Mint's or Treasury Department's names, symbols, or emblems. Furthermore, any such misuse of the agencies' names, symbols, or emblems could result in an up-to $25,000 fine for each and every misuse in broadcasts and telecasts.

The United States Mint first requested public comment on the new rules in January 2005, and the proposed codes were published then in the Federal Register. The authority for this new rule is Title 31 of the United States Code, Section 333.