2005 State Quarters

In 2005, the United States Mint's 50 State Quarters program continued into its seventh year, presenting five new state-themed coin designs that celebrated the unique history and culture of each state. These quarters were released in the order the states joined the Union. The first quarter of 2005 honored California, featuring conservationist John Muir and the California condor set against the backdrop of Yosemite Valley's iconic Half Dome, symbolizing the state's natural beauty and its commitment to environmental preservation. The second quarter paid tribute to Minnesota, showcasing the state's many lakes, a fisherman, and a loon, representing Minnesota's rich outdoor heritage and its cherished moniker, "Land of 10,000 Lakes." The third quarter celebrated Kansas, depicting a bison and a sunflower, symbolizing the state's thriving agricultural industry and its vast prairies teeming with native wildlife. The fourth quarter, commemorating West Virginia, featured the New River Gorge Bridge, celebrating the state's engineering marvels and its stunning Appalachian landscapes. Finally, the fifth quarter issued in 2005 honored Oregon, showcasing a picturesque scene of Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, representing the state's breathtaking natural beauty and unique geological features. As with earlier releases, these state quarters were minted in limited quantities, captivating collectors and the general public while fostering a deeper appreciation for the nation's diverse history and culture.