New quarters feature pilgrims, not civil rights

The U.S. Mint on Wednesday revealed special quarter-dollar coin designs for the U.S.’ 250th birthday featuring pilgrims and former presidents rather than previously floated civil rights themes.

Designs considered ahead of next year’s anniversary included those focused on abolitionist Frederick Douglass and images depicting suffragettes with “votes for women” banners. Also in the running were several showcasing Ruby Bridges, the first Black student to integrate her school.

Instead, the Mint’s five finalized designs for the 25-cent coin spotlight:

• Pilgrims and the Mayflower
• George Washington and the Revolutionary War
• Thomas Jefferson and the Liberty Bell
• James Madison and Independence Hall
• Abraham Lincoln and a quote from the Gettysburg Address

Acting Mint Director Kristie McNally said in a press release that the selected designs “depict the story of America’s journey toward a ‘more perfect union,’ and celebrate America’s defining ideals of liberty.”

“We hope to offer each American the opportunity to hold our nation’s storied 250 years of history in the palms of their hands,” McNally said.

Wednesday’s unveiling follows several splashy moves around U.S. coinage in recent months.

The U.S. Mint produced its last-ever penny last month after more than 230 years in circulation, citing increasing production costs and a decline in physical cash usage amid the rise in electronic payment options.

U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach confirmed in October that the Treasury Department was considering minting a $1 coin featuring President Donald Trump on both sides for the 250th anniversary. The back of the coin would showcase imagery similar to those captured of Trump after the assassination attempt against him last year.

A Treasury spokesperson told CNBC in October that a final design for a $1 coin had not yet be chosen. As of Thursday, the Mint’s list of contenders included three designs for the “heads” side all featuring Trump.