The coin featuring the iconic Cuban singer Celia Cruz (1925-2003) officially began circulating in the United States on August 5th. This special edition is part of the American Women Quarters 2024 program, which honors five prominent female figures in the nation.
"Great news for fans of Celia Cruz and Latin music! Limited edition coins featuring Celia Cruz's image have started circulating in the United States," announced the U.S. Embassy in Cuba on their Facebook page. The diplomatic mission described the event as a "historic milestone" because “Celia is the first Afro-Latina figure to appear on a U.S. coin.”
According to the U.S. Mint, the obverse (heads) of the coin showcases a portrait of George Washington, originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of the first U.S. president. The reverse features Celia Cruz flashing her dazzling smile while performing in a rumba-style dress, with her signature phrase “¡AZÚCAR!” inscribed to the right.
The release of this commemorative coin was pushed forward by a week, confirmed Brent Thacker, spokesperson for the U.S. Mint, to the digital site Café Fuerte. As of Wednesday, August 7th, bags and wrapped rolls containing the coins, minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco, are available for purchase online. The institution also confirmed that these coins would appear in other local financial institutions before the end of August, advising the public to check availability.
The Legacy of Celia Cruz
The Queen of Salsa, who became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1977, is the first Afro-Latina personality to be immortalized on a U.S. coin. Celia, one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century, was born in Havana on October 21, 1925. In 1960, she went into exile, and her music was banned from Cuban media by the Castro regime. However, Cubans on the island defied the censorship and continued to listen to her in private.
Among the numerous accolades awarded to the Cuban artist are three American Grammy Awards, four Latin Grammy Awards, and the Presidential Medal of the Arts.
Celia Cruz's Commemorative Coin: Key Questions and Answers
To provide more insights into this historic release, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers about Celia Cruz’s commemorative coin.
Why is Celia Cruz featured on a U.S. coin?
Celia Cruz is featured on a U.S. coin as part of the American Women Quarters 2024 program, which honors significant female figures in American history. She is the first Afro-Latina to be commemorated in this way.
When did the coin start circulating?
The coin began circulating officially on August 5, 2024.
Where can I purchase the Celia Cruz coins?
The coins can be purchased online from the U.S. Mint's website. They are also expected to be available in local financial institutions.