King Kamehameha I joins Queen Isabella of Spain as a monarch depicted on an American quarter with the release of the Hawaiian state coin Nov. 10 in Bishop Square in downtown Honolulu.
Of course, the 1893 Isabella coin was a noncirculating commemorative.
Joining Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle for the Hawaii quarter introduction ceremony, Mint Director Ed Moy lauded the state quarter series.
“We will remember the wonderful things we accomplished with this 10-year initiative,” he said.
“Because of the 50 State Quarters Program, a geography lesson will jingle in our pockets for years to come,” he noted.
The formal event included a keiki hula performance and the strains of Hawaiian music filled the air.
Kids in attendance received free quarters that were distributed by Moy and the governor.
Adults were able to buy 40-coin rolls of the new quarters for their face value of $10.
Unlike other states, Hawaii was a kingdom prior to becoming American territory in 1899. It was the last state to join the Union in 1959.
The Hawaii quarter is the 50th and last one in the state series. Next year quarters will honor the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and four other American territories.
Check the Mint’s Web site at www.usmint.gov to purchase the collectible versions in rolls, bags and various sets.
