On March 23, 2026, the United States Mint joined George Washington’s Mount Vernon to celebrate the release of the Revolutionary War Quarter. This coin marks the second issue in the 2026 Semiquincentennial Circulating Coin Program.
The Mint released the quarter into circulation through Federal Reserve Banks and their designated coin terminals. From there, financial institutions will distribute the coins nationwide.
Notably, Brandon Beach, Treasurer of the United States, represented the Department of the Treasury and the Mint during the ceremony.
A Historic Setting Reinforces the Coin’s Meaning
Brandon Beach emphasized the importance of launching the coin at Mount Vernon. He explained that the location directly connects the coin’s story to the ground where history unfolded.
He stated that the coin invites Americans to reflect on the courage and ideals that shaped the nation’s founding. Moreover, he noted that the legacy of the Revolutionary War lives not only in books but also in historic places, and now in everyday coinage.
Mount Vernon Leadership Highlights the Coin’s Impact
Doug Bradburn, President and CEO of Mount Vernon, reinforced the coin’s historical significance.
He pointed to George Washington’s leadership during the Revolutionary War as a defining force behind American independence. Furthermore, he stressed that the coin arrives at a meaningful moment as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary.
According to Bradburn, the quarter allows Americans to connect with history in a tangible way. It also honors the resilience and sacrifice of those who fought for liberty.
Design Details: A Story Told in Metal
Obverse: Washington and America’s Founding Ideals
The obverse features George Washington, the nation’s first president and Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.
The design includes the inscriptions:
- “E PLURIBUS UNUM”
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- “1776 ~ 2026”
These elements link the nation’s founding year with its 250th anniversary.
Reverse: Valley Forge and the Struggle for Independence
The reverse depicts a Continental Army soldier at Valley Forge.
This imagery captures a critical moment in the war. After defeat at the Battle of Brandywine, Washington’s forces endured extreme cold, disease, and shortages during the harsh winter of 1777–1778.
At the same time, independence had already been declared. However, the Second Continental Congress fled Philadelphia to avoid a British attack.
The soldier’s determined expression symbolizes perseverance in the pursuit of liberty.
The reverse includes the inscriptions:
- “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”
- “LIBERTY”
- “25¢”
- “REVOLUTIONARY WAR”
Authorized by Congress: A Semiquincentennial Tribute
Congress authorized this coin through the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020. Donald J. Trump signed the law on January 13, 2021.
The program commemorates 250 years of American liberty. It reflects the nation’s founding principles while honoring its history through circulating coinage.
Why This Coin Matters to Collectors and the Public
This release does more than introduce a new quarter. It brings history into daily life.
Every transaction now carries a reminder of sacrifice, endurance, and the fight for independence. As a result, the coin bridges past and present in a uniquely accessible way.
At the same time, collectors gain a historically rich addition tied directly to the Semiquincentennial milestone.
Learn More About the Program
For additional details on the Semiquincentennial Coin and Medal Program and upcoming collectible releases, visit the official U.S. Mint website.
1976D Lincoln wheat memorial penny. 1999P George Washington lovely penny
@Peter Kimathi mithiaru: To clear things up –
> Wheat cents were issued from 1909 to 1958. They have the famous “wheat ear” reverse.
> There weren’t 1999P cents with Washington’s image, only quarters (25¢). Cents have carried Lincoln’s image since 1909.
If you’re interested in knowing more about US coins, a lot of us started with the famous A Guide Book of United States Coins, a/k/a the “Red Book”. It’s a great read.
I love the 2026 designs for our coinage. It’s too bad the US Mint raised the prices up too much for the average person to enjoy all of them.