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NATIONAL PARK QUARTERS
The coins release order is dictated by the order in which the honored sites came under the direct control of the federal government. As such, the Hot Springs National Park Quarter was the first to be released as the site was granted federal protection on April 20, 1832. Conversely, the last coin to be released in the program will be the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Quarter, scheduled for 2021, with that site only being established on November 6, 1998.
All of the sites are honored on the reverse (tails side) of the fifty-six quarter dollars issued in the series with a design emblematic of that location. The obverse (heads side) of each coin will contain the same design, a portrait of George Washington, the first President of the United States. This image of Washington was initially used on the circulating 1932 quarter dollar and was designed by John Flanagan. The same portrait has been used on the quarters ever since 1932, with some modifications occurring in 1999 as part of the 50-State Quarter series.
Effigy Mounds National Monument Quarter – The Effigy Mounds National Monument Quarter honors the site in Iowa where, over 1000 years ago, American Indians created hundreds of mounds to commemorate the passing of loved ones as well as for everyday use as part of their culture. Over 200 mounds, some shaped like animals, are preserved at the national monument today.
This national monument is over 2500 acres and is affiliated with twelve American Indian tribes. Visitors can come and see the mounds all year round, and get a glimpse into the lives of some of the American Indian tribes from the area.
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Quarter – The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Quarter honors the site in Washington, D.C. where the home of Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist who was born into slavery is located. He spent his entire life, after escaping to freedom, fighting for equal rights for everyone, which still inspires people today.
Located in the District of Columbia, Frederick Douglass National Historic Site allows visitors to tour Frederick Douglass’s home, known as Cedar Hill, where they can also see a spectacular view of the Washington D.C. area.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways Quarter – The Ozark National Scenic Riverways of Missouri protects the two spring fed rivers that flow through the area and the intricate bio-systems found there. Also featured here is the Old Red Mill. This mill was built in 1894, and allows visitors to learn about some of the early European settlers that came to this area.
There are also over 300 caves and springs in this area, however, tourists may only visit the caves during the summer months. Tourists may also hike, kayak, canoe, or participate in other water sports when they visit Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
Established in 1964, Ozark National Scenic Riverways was the first national park that protected a wild river system and is located in Missouri.
Ellis Island National Monument (Statue of Liberty) Quarter – The Ellis Island National Monument (Statue of Liberty) Quarter honors the site in New Jersey which opened on January 1st, 1892. After opening, Ellis Island became the prime facility for immigrants to enter into America. Over 12 million immigrants passed through Ellis Island, and almost 40% of the current US population can trace their ancestry to Ellis.
On September 10th, 1990, Ellis Island reopened as a museum after 30 years of abandonment. There are almost 30 other buildings on the island that have not been restored. These include hospitals, quarantine and other facilities used for the immigrants.
Ellis Island National Monument is also part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Many immigrants saw the Statue of Liberty as a sign of hope when they pulled into Ellis Island.
George Rogers Clark National Historical Park Quarter – The George Rogers Clark National Historical Park Quarter honors the site in Indiana where George Rogers, and American Colonel, marched his men on February 25th, 1779 to Fort Sackville and overthrew the British army residing there.
This helped the United States stake claim on an area of the frontier nearly the size of the original thirteen states. Visitors can view murals and the Clark Memorial, while learning about the importance of this historical area.