Indiana
An IndyCar race car and 19 stars express the 'Crossroads of America.'
Indiana is a state in the Midwestern United States, and its nickname is “The Hoosier State.” The name comes from “Hoosier,” an affectionate term for people from Indiana. Issued in 2002, this quarter is the 19th coin in the 50 States series.
On the reverse of the coin, an IndyCar race car is depicted speeding along powerfully, with the state outline and 19 stars arranged behind it. Below is the inscription “Crossroads of America.”
The IndyCar race car represents the auto racing culture that Indiana takes pride in. The 19 stars indicate that Indiana joined the Union as the 19th state of the United States. The phrase “Crossroads of America” carries the pride of being a hub of transportation, where many roads cross and meet within this state.
Indiana joined the Union as the 19th state of the United States on December 11, 1816. The character of this state—a crossroads where people and goods pass through, and famous for fast auto racing—is condensed within the reverse design.
Watching the race car speed across a small coin, you can feel how much Indiana cherishes “movement” and “connection.” This quarter reminds us that where roads gather, people and stories gather together too.