The peregrine falcon in profile is the prominent image on the Idaho quarter, the 43^rd coin released by the United States Mint in the popular 50 State Quarters Program.  Next to the peregrine falcon profile are a map of the state and the state motto, "Esto Perpetua" (May it Be Forever), and above the falcon are the inscriptions "Idaho" and "1890," representing the year Idaho entered the Union.

"Today we celebrate a distinctive state quarter and the recovery of the peregrine falcon," said Secretary of the Treasury Paulson.  "Millions of Americans will have the chance to collect the Idaho quarter and learn more about this spectacular bird."

 "We are proud that Idaho took the lead in the recovery of the peregrine falcon. The greatest gift we have been given is our state's natural beauty, and we have a sacred responsibility to protect and preserve it," said Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne. "When our children hold Idaho's quarter, it will serve as our promise to do better to conserve species."  Secretary Kempthorne formerly served as mayor of Boise and U.S. Senator and Governor of Idaho.

 "The Idaho quarter contains many lessons in a very small space," Director Moy said, "state geography, history, a little Latin and a big reminder of Idaho's part in the remarkable comeback of the fastest bird in the world."  Moy pointed out that the "Kids & Teachers" page on the United States Mint website (http://www.usmint.gov/) features lesson plans about the Idaho quarter.

Following the ceremony, Secretary Paulson, Secretary Kempthorne, Director Moy and State Treasurer Crane handed out shiny, new Idaho quarters to the children in the crowd.  Adults lined up to exchange their bills for $10 rolls of Idaho quarters.

For a SATELLITE FEED of the Idaho Quarter Launch (News media only): Friday, August 3^rd, 7:00-7:30 PM ET - C Band, Galaxy 26C, Tr. 11, DL 3920V; 9:00-9:15 PM ET - C Band, Galaxy 26C, Tr. 11, DL 3920V.

Saturday, August 4^th, 3:30-3:45 PM ET - C Band, Galaxy 26C, Tr. 11, DL 3920V.