History in Your Pocket!
Did you know that every coin in your pocket tells a story? Some parts of the story are stamped right into the metal, and some are hidden in the history of the coin. We know about ancient cultures and civilizations because of coins that have lasted thousands of years. This month is all about celebrating our nation’s history using something that you and your students can find in your pocket, in a change jar, or under a couch cushion! Check out the Mint’s history resources below or reach out to education.outreach@usmint.treas.gov today.
New Geography Game: Map Mania
For 20 years, the Mint has featured a different quarter design for each of the 50 states. Learn all about U.S. geography and different quarter designs in our newest kids game Map Mania. Race against another player or the computer to correctly identify all 50 states, state capitals, and answer fun state trivia!
Coin of the Month: 2020 Native American $1 Coin
Every year, the Mint launches a new coin design that celebrates the important accomplishments made by Native Americans to the history of the United States. This year’s 2020 Native American $1 Coin features Elizabeth Peratrovich, an advocate for Alaskan Natives in support of Alaska’s Anti-Discrimination Law. 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of Peratrovich’s famous testimony in support of the nation’s first anti-discrimination law.
- The reverse (tails) features a portrait of Elizabeth Peratrovich (Tlingit Nation), whose advocacy is considered to be a deciding factor in the passage of the 1945 Anti-Discrimination Law in the Alaskan State legislature. The design also features a symbol of the Tlingit Raven moiety, of which she was a member.
- The obverse (heads) features the central figure of the “Sacagawea” design first produced in 2000.
Presidential History
Do you know your U.S. presidents? Test your knowledge by playing Plinky’s Presidential Challenge.
Historic Lesson Plans
Teach history using United States coins with hundreds of free online history lesson plans.
Hoop and Darts
Discover the Mint’s online version of the traditional Native American game Hoop and Darts.
We Want to Hear from You!
Are you interested in incorporating coins into your classroom next year, but aren’t sure where to start? Let us help you! The U.S. Mint offers K-12 lesson plans, 12 online educational games, 100+ videos, online quizzes, a free 2019 Coin Coloring Book PDF, and other resources. Reach out to us at education.outreach@usmint.treas.gov to request resources that fit your education needs.