Hoosier State Honored with New Indiana State Quarter
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - Governor Frank O'Bannon today joined United States Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to unveil the Indiana commemorative quarter-dollar coin, the 19th under the United States Mint's 50 State Quarters Program. First Lady Judy O'Bannon and Tony George, President of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, also gave remarks at the event. Racecar driver Sarah Fisher was on hand to sign autographs.
"Since the first Indianapolis 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1911, Indiana has become synonymous with world-class auto racing," said Director Fore. "It is fitting that the Indiana quarter honors the Indy car, a vibrant symbol not only of America's spirit of competition but also of its preeminence in engineering." She added that Hoosiers should be proud of this coin and the place it now takes as the 19th state in the 50 State Quarters Program.
Governor O'Bannon selected the final design after the Indiana Commemorative Quarter Selection Committee received and reviewed over 3,700 design suggestions from across the state. The winning design recognizes the state's famous Indianapolis 500 race. The design features the image of an "Indy" car superimposed on an outline of the state with the inscription "Crossroads of America." The design also includes 19 stars, symbolizing Indiana as the 19th state to be admitted to the Union.
"We are very proud of this coin, and we think people around the country will instantly think of Indiana when they see it," Governor O'Bannon said. "Our state played a significant role in the expansion and development of the United States at its crossroads, and this coin signifies that importance."