Mint Celebrates Release of the Mississippi State Quarter
JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI - Governor Ronnie Musgrove today joined United States Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore at the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science to unveil the 20th state quarter in the 50 State Quarters Program, honoring the Magnolia State's famous flora. Former Mississippi Governor William Winter, State Treasurer Marshall Bennett and Darrell Beeson, President of the Mississippi Numismatic Association, also gave remarks at the event.
"More than 100 years ago, it was the children of Mississippi who selected the magnolia as their favorite flower," said Director Fore. "Today, we celebrate the splendor of the South and the emblem of your great state on America's coinage."
The Mississippi quarter, the fifth and last quarter of 2002 and the 20th in the series, showcases the beauty and elegance of the state flower, combining the blossoms and leaves of two magnolias with the inscription "The Magnolia State."
The magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), named for the French botanist Pierre Magnol, is strongly associated with the South where the flower became enormously popular after it was introduced from Asia. This association became strong enough that Mississippi adopted it as the state flower in 1952.
"This is an exciting and historic day for Mississippi. This coin showcases the beauty throughout our state and symbolizes our southern heritage," said Governor Musgrove. "We are pleased that so many Mississippi school children and our citizens participated in today's historical event. For years to come, Mississippians can be proud of this coin and its unique design."