Delaware 1999 State Quarter:
The Forgotten Founding State with a Hidden Message
Did you know that the Delaware 1999 50 State Quarter holds a hidden message within its design?
The horseman on the coin represents Caesar Rodney, a Delaware delegate who cast the deciding vote for American independence. But look closely at the horse’s tail, and you’ll notice it forms the shape of the state. This clever design element adds an intriguing layer to the coin’s symbolism, emphasizing Delaware’s pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history.
The First of Its Kind: The 1999 Delaware State Quarter was the first coin released in the 50 State Quarters Program by the U.S. Mint. The coin was released on January 4, 1999.
This program honored each state in the order of their admission to the Union and ratification of the Constitution. As the first State Quarter, this coin is one of the most widely remembered reverse designs.
A Heroic Ride: The reverse side of the coin features an image of Caesar Rodney on horseback. Rodney was a delegate to the Continental Congress who rode 80 miles from Dover to Philadelphia to cast a decisive vote for independence in 1776. He completed this heroic journey despite suffering from cancer and asthma. This coin commemorates Rodney’s historic ride and his contribution to American independence.
A Collector’s Dream: The standard 1999 Delaware State Quarters are made of a clad composition that contains copper and nickel.
