Illinois Quarter Features Lincoln
The
Illinois State Quarter, the first coin of the 50 State Quarters Program
to be released in 2003, pays tribute to Illinois' heritage and the state's
past, present, and future role as a leader in agriculture and industry.
The quarter's design features a young Abraham Lincoln within the outline of the state. A farm scene and the Chicago skyline appear on either side state's outline. Also included is the State slogan, Land of Lincoln, as well as 21 stars and the inscription 21st State - Century. The design was inspired by artwork submitted to the Governor by Thom Cicchelli of Chicago.
"The Illinois commemorative quarter will encourage the youth of the United States to explore Illinois, its history and geography, as well as the rich diversity of our heritage," said Illinois Governor George H. Ryan. "I am proud that Lincoln is standing boldly in the center of the design. His resolve and example mean a great deal to people in Illinois and throughout the world."
The image of Lincoln in the design is from The Resolute Lincoln,
a sculpture by Avard Fairbanks that depicts Lincoln at a pivotal time in
his development. It is meant to reflect a turning point in Lincoln's career
and the changes that Lincoln went through during the six years he spent
in New Salem, Illinois, where he resolves to put down the ax and pick up
the book. The young Lincoln lived and practiced law in Springfield,
Illinois, before becoming one of our nation's greatest leaders. Lincoln's
historic home, burial site, and new presidential library are all
located in the Springfield area.
The "Land of Lincoln" slogan was adopted in 1955 by the General Assembly. In that same year, the U.S. Congress passed a special act granting to the State of Illinois a copyright for exclusive use of the "Land of Lincoln" insignia. The inscription "21st State/21st Century" describes Illinois' historical role as the 21st state to ratify the Constitution and the state's present and future role in the Union.
The 50 State Quarters® Program is a 10-year initiative (1999 - 2008) commemorating each of the 50 states. The U.S. quarter's design will change five times each year, honoring the states in the order in which they ratified the Constitution. Later this year, quarters honoring Alabama, Maine, Missouri, and Arkansas will be issued.
The Community Press