WASHINGTON – August typically signals the end of summer, but there are still enough pleasant days left to enjoy the serenity of our Nation’s pristine national parks and sites. Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi will be the site of the launch ceremony for the new America the Beautiful Quarters® Program coin struck in the park’s honor. The ceremony will take place Tuesday, August 30 at the USS Cairo Museum located on the grounds of the park. The ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m. Central Time (CT).
In November, Oklahomans and the rest of the Nation will have two things to celebrate: the 104th anniversary of the Oklahoma’s admission into the Union and the release of the new quarter honoring Chickasaw National Recreation Area. The launch ceremony will take place Wednesday, November 16 at The Point at the Lake of the Arbuckles boat launch parking lot in Sulphur, Okla. The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. CT.
Both events include a coin exchange after the ceremony where participants can exchange their cash for rolls containing the honored site’s new quarter. Children 18 years old and younger will receive a free quarter to commemorate the event.
Additionally, the United States Mint will hold a coin forum the evening before each quarter launch ceremony where the public can discuss future U.S. coinage and learn about United States Mint initiatives and coin programs. Information about the coin forums will be available in the coming weeks.
The United States Mint, created by Congress in 1792, is the Nation’s sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage and is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The United States Mint also produces proof, uncirculated and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; and silver, gold and platinum bullion coins.