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Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Quarter

Year of Issue

2020

Authorizing Legislation

Public Law 110-456

Background

The 2021 Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Quarter is the 56th coin in the America the Beautiful Quarters® Program.

The Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in Alabama commemorates the heroic actions and achievements of the famous Tuskegee Airmen. The term “Tuskegee Airmen” pertains to both men and women of diverse nationalities. They were composed of nearly 1,000 pilots and more than 15,000 support staff (including navigators, bombardiers, and mechanics). The site preserves five historic structures used during primary flight training in World War II.

Characteristics

The obverse (heads) design features the familiar image of George Washington by John Flanagan, used on the quarter since 1932. It has been restored to bring out subtle details and the beauty of the original.

The reverse (tails) design depicts a Tuskegee Airman pilot suiting up to join the fight during World War II with the Moton Field control tower in the background. The pilot looks upward with pride and confidence as two P-51 Mustangs pass overhead. The inscription “THEY FOUGHT TWO WARS” is arced across the top as a reference to the dual battles the Tuskegee Airmen fought–fascism abroad and racial discrimination at home.

Obverse Inscriptions

  • UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
  • LIBERTY
  • IN GOD WE TRUST
  • QUARTER DOLLAR

Reverse Inscriptions

  • TUSKEGEE AIRMEN
  • ALABAMA
  • 2021
  • E PLURIBUS UNUM

Mint and Mint Mark

Specifications

The U.S. Mint released the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Quarter in circulating, uncirculated, and proof finishes. A five-ounce silver coin was also produced in uncirculated and bullion finishes.

Quarter (Circulating, Uncirculated, Proof):

  • Composition: Cupro-Nickel Clad (8.33% nickel, balance copper)
  • Weight: 5.670 grams
  • Diameter: 0.955 inch (24.26 mm)
  • Thickness: 1.75 mm
  • Edge: Reeded

Five-Ounce Silver Coin (Uncirculated, Bullion):

  • Composition: 99.9% silver
  • Weight: 5.0 ounces
  • Diameter: 3.0 inches
  • Edge: Edge-Lettering

Artist Credits