The Guam quarter is one of the most unique and interesting coins in circulation. Released by the United States Mint as part of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program, it showcases the beauty and culture of the American territory of Guam. But what exactly does the Guam quarter say?
On the obverse side of the Guam quarter, you will find a portrait of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Surrounding his image are the words “United States of America” and “Quarter Dollar.” This side of the coin is a reminder of the country’s history and the values it was founded upon.
Flip the Guam quarter over, and you will be greeted with a stunning depiction of a latte stone, a symbol of Chamorro culture and heritage. The latte stone is a pillar topped with a capstone, and it was used as a foundation for ancient Chamorro houses. The words “Guam,” “E Pluribus Unum,” and the year of minting are also inscribed on this side of the coin.
The words “E Pluribus Unum” are Latin for “Out of many, one.” They serve as a motto for the United States, representing the idea that the country is a diverse and unified nation. The inclusion of this motto on the Guam quarter highlights the unique identity and contribution of Guam to the larger American story.
Overall, the Guam quarter is not just a representation of a beautiful island, but also a celebration of the rich history and culture of the Chamorro people. It serves as a reminder of the unity and diversity that define the United States, and the important role that Guam plays in that narrative.
Decoding the Guam Quarter Design
The design of the Guam quarter holds significant meaning and showcases the unique aspects of the island and its culture. By examining the various elements featured on the quarter, we can gain a deeper understanding of Guam’s rich history and heritage.
The central image on the quarter depicts the outline of the island of Guam, emphasizing its geographical position in the Pacific Ocean. This symbolizes the island’s importance as a strategic location and its connection to the rest of the world.
Surrounding the outline of the island is a coconut tree, which represents both the natural beauty of Guam and its vital role in the island’s economy. The coconut tree is known as the “Tree of Life” and has been used for sustenance, shelter, and various other purposes throughout Guam’s history.
Additionally, the design includes a Latte stone, a cultural and historical symbol of Guam. Latte stones were used in ancient Chamorro society as the foundation for buildings and served as a representation of strength and support. Including the Latte stone in the design pays homage to Guam’s indigenous people and their contributions to the island’s development.
Finally, the inscription “Guam – Land of the Chamorro” is featured prominently on the quarter. This inscription serves as a reminder of Guam’s indigenous Chamorro population and their enduring presence on the island. It acknowledges their unique cultural heritage and their continued contributions to Guam’s diverse society.
Overall, the design of the Guam quarter encapsulates the island’s history, culture, and people. It serves as a visual representation of Guam’s significance and offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of the island’s past and present.
History and Importance of the Guam Quarter
The Guam quarter is a special edition coin that was released in 2019 by the United States Mint as part of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program. This program aims to honor the unique history, culture, and natural beauty of various states and territories of the United States. The Guam quarter showcases the stunning natural landscape of the Pacific island of Guam.
The history of Guam is deeply intertwined with American history. The island of Guam was discovered by the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, making it the first contact between Europeans and the native Chamorro people. In the subsequent years, Guam became a Spanish colony, and the Spanish influence is still visible in the architecture and culture of the island.
During World War II, Guam was occupied by the Japanese for over two years before being recaptured by American forces. The battle for Guam was one of the bloodiest conflicts in the Pacific theater of the war, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. The liberation of Guam by the United States was a significant turning point in the war and marked the beginning of the end of Japan’s control in the Pacific.
The Guam quarter is an important reminder of the sacrifices made by the people of Guam during the war and their resilience in the face of adversity. It serves as a symbol of freedom and the enduring partnership between Guam and the United States.
In addition to its historical significance, the Guam quarter also highlights the natural beauty of the island. Guam is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical rainforests. The coin depicts a sea turtle swimming in the waters surrounding the island, representing the rich marine life that calls Guam home.
Overall, the Guam quarter is not just a coin, but a testament to the history, culture, and natural beauty of the island of Guam. It serves as a reminder of the island’s past, its enduring connection with the United States, and its commitment to preserving its unique heritage for future generations.
Symbolic Elements on the Guam Quarter
The Guam Quarter features several symbolic elements that represent the unique heritage and culture of the island. These elements help to tell the story of Guam and its people.
One of the most prominent symbols on the Guam Quarter is the War in the Pacific National Historical Park. The park is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the people of Guam during World War II. The design of the park on the quarter includes the entrance gate, a soldier on patrol, and a coconut tree, which represents resilience and survival.
Another symbol on the Guam Quarter is the language. The words “Guahan I Tanó ManChamorro,” which means “Guam – Land of the Chamorro,” are inscribed on the coin. This represents the native Chamorro people and their connection to the land.
The Guam Quarter also features a sailing vessel called a proa. This traditional boat represents the seafaring history of the Chamorro people and their navigational skills. The proa is an important symbol of Guam’s maritime heritage.
Finally, the Guam Quarter depicts a flying proa-shaped lei, a traditional adornment made from flowers or shells. This lei represents the hospitality and warm spirit of the people of Guam.
These symbolic elements on the Guam Quarter serve to honor the history, culture, and people of Guam. They are a reminder of the island’s unique identity and the importance of preserving its heritage for future generations.
The Slogan Representing Guam
Guam’s slogan, “Where America’s Day Begins,” represents the island’s unique position as the westernmost territory of the United States. Located in the western Pacific Ocean, Guam is the first American soil to greet the rising sun each day. This slogan not only highlights Guam’s geographical location, but also emphasizes its status as a gateway between the U.S. and Asia.
Depiction of Unique Guamanian Wildlife
The Guam quarter features a stunning depiction of unique Guamanian wildlife, highlighting the island’s rich biodiversity. The reverse side of the quarter portrays a coconut tree, which is a symbol of life and sustenance in Guam. The image showcases the coconut tree’s tall, slender trunk reaching toward the sky, with its iconic leaves cascading from the top.
In the background, the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean can be seen, reflecting the vibrant colors of the tropical surroundings. This serves as a reminder of the island’s proximity to the ocean and the significance of marine life in Guamanian culture.
The Guam quarter also features two distinct species of birds that are native to the island. The Guam kingfisher, also known as the sihek in the Chamorro language, is depicted on the coin. This small, vibrant blue bird is an endangered species and is native to Guam. Its presence on the coin symbolizes the importance of wildlife conservation and the efforts being made to protect these precious creatures.
Another Guamanian bird on the quarter is the Guam rail, known as the ko’ko’ bird in Chamorro. This flightless bird is unique to Guam and is also critically endangered. Its inclusion on the coin serves as a reminder of the island’s responsibility to protect and preserve its exceptional fauna.
The depiction of these unique Guamanian wildlife species on the Guam quarter showcases the island’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage and raising awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. It serves as a reminder of the island’s distinctive biodiversity and its commitment to safeguarding its valuable ecosystems for future generations.
Commemorative Dates on the Guam Quarter
The Guam Quarter, introduced in 2009 as part of the United States Mint’s DC and US Territories Quarters Program, features a number of commemorative dates that hold significance for the territory of Guam.
1. 430th Anniversary of the Discovery of Guam (1668-2009): The quarter showcases the year 1668, marking the discovery of Guam by the Spanish explorer Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira. This event was instrumental in the island’s colonial history.
2. Shaped by the Ancient Latte Stones: The quarter highlights the latte stones, ancient stone pillars constructed by the indigenous Chamorro people. These structures are symbolic of the pre-colonial history and culture of Guam.
3. Latte Stones and Taotao Mona: The quarter showcases the latte stones along with a depiction of a Chamorro woman known as Taotao Mona. This design represents the harmony between the island’s rich cultural heritage and its natural beauty.
4. The inscription “Guam” and “E Pluribus Unum” (Out of Many, One): These inscriptions reflect Guam’s place as an integral part of the United States and its commitment to unity.
The inclusion of these commemorative dates on the Guam Quarter serves to honor the historical and cultural significance of Guam, providing a lasting tribute to its heritage for generations to come.
Collectible Value of the Guam Quarter
The Guam Quarter, a coin released as part of the United States Mint’s 50 State Quarters Program, holds both historical and collectible value. Its unique design features a scenic view of the island of Guam, showcasing its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
As a collectible item, the Guam Quarter appeals to coin enthusiasts, history buffs, and individuals with a connection to Guam. The limited mintage of these quarters makes them highly sought after by collectors. Collectors often look for specific qualities in coins, such as mint condition, rarity, and unique errors or varieties.
In terms of value, the Guam Quarter’s worth can vary depending on several factors. The condition of the coin plays a significant role, as a well-preserved, uncirculated coin can fetch a higher price than one with signs of wear. Coins with errors or unique variations may also command a higher value among collectors.
Furthermore, the rarity of the Guam Quarter contributes to its collectible value. The United States Mint produced the Guam Quarter for a limited period, only from 2009 to 2021, making it one of the scarcer coins in circulation. This scarcity increases the demand for the coin among collectors, enhancing its value.
Collectors often use various methods to determine the value of a Guam Quarter, such as consulting price guides, attending coin shows, or working with coin dealers. These resources provide insights into the current market value of the coin, taking into account factors like condition, rarity, and demand.
While the Guam Quarter may not have a significant monetary value beyond its face value, its collectible value is what makes it desirable to many. The coin serves as a tangible reminder of the unique culture and beauty of Guam, allowing enthusiasts to connect with the island’s rich history whenever they hold it in their hands.
