Each state is submitting a design for the back of the coin for the "Fifty States Commemorative Coin Program", established by federal legislation in 1997. Kentucky’s quarter will be released by the U.S. Mint in October of 2001.

The portrait of George Washington remains on the front of the quarter, but the tail will reflect something that’s uniquely Kentucky, in accordance with Treasury Department guidelines. The rules provide for "enduring representations" of each of the 50 states. "Not allowed" includes anything offensive, controversial, any state seal, state flag, or any portraits of any persons living or dead.

Kentucky Governor Paul Patton asked First Lady Judi Patton to take charge of the quarter project, and Mrs. Patton is inviting any interested Kentuckian to submit a design appropriate for Kentucky. "We want everyone who has a suggestion to give us a concept, so we can find something that is as gracious, beautiful, and unique as our Commonwealth of Kentucky is", Mrs. Patton said. "We have many talented people of all ages and we would especially encourage our children to participate in this historic process. This quarter will be a legacy for generations to come."

If you have an idea for Kentucky’s quarter, draw , design or paste it in black or white only and mail your suggestion to Judi Patton, Executive Mansion, 704 Capitol Avenue, Frankfort, Kentucky, 40601. All entries must be postmarked by June 4^th, 1999 to be eligible for consideration. Don’t fold, spindle or otherwise crumple the entry. Mail it flat, please. Include a one paragraph description of the reason your design is the right symbol for Kentucky.

The Kentucky Quarter Design Suggestion Form is now available on the web at http://www.state.ky.us/agencies/gov/quarter/quarter.htm On Monday, May 10, 1999, the entry forms will be available at every county courthouse and mayor’s office.

Kentucky will submit three to five of the selected designs to the U.S. Mint for consideration by June 21^st, 1999. The Mint will draw up the official artwork to establish the feasibility of translating the designs to the back of the coin. The governor and Mrs. Patton will make the final selection based upon the Mint’s artwork.

Kentucky was the 15^th state admitted to the United States and its coin will be introduced as the 15^th of all the states.

Kentucky’s liaison to the U.S. Mint for the Kentucky Quarter project is Robert Farmer of Louisville, serving on a volunteer basis. For more information contact Farmer at 502-583-2200.