Politics & Government
Officials Unveil Fort McHenry Quarter
The new quarter will be available following a Friday morning ceremony at the fort.
City and federal officials will gather at Fort McHenry on Friday for an event marking the introduction of a new quarter honoring the famed installation.
The new quarter is the 19th in a program honoring 56 national parks and historic sites. The US Mint has already issued coins for parks including Gettysburg National Military Park and Yosemite National Park. The Fort McHenry coin depicts bombs bursting in air above the fort, evoking the lines of the national anthem.
Fort McHenry played a critical role in defending the city during the Battle of Baltimore in the War of 1812. While held captive on a British ship, Francis Scott Key wrote what would become the national anthem's lyrics after seeing the flag still waving after the battle.
The coin will be available after the 10 a.m. ceremony in rolls at face value for $10 each, according to a release from Ruppersberger's office.
It isn't the first time the Old Line State has been depicted in currency. The state quarter, first minted in 2000, depicts the Maryland State House.
What do you think of the new quarter design? Would you buy a roll? Tell us in the comments!
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