WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Mint has unveiled the final circulating coin designs to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, launching a special “America 250” program that will feature new looks for Quarters, Dimes, and Nickels.
While the program is intended to mark the semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence, the chosen imagery—particularly for the Quarter—has ignited a debate among historians and activists over how the nation chooses to tell its story.
The 2026 commemorative series will place a fresh emphasis on milestones tied to the country’s founding and early history. The special-edition Quarters, Dimes, and Nickels will feature unique designs for one year, blending everyday transactions with historical narrative. Coin experts are already predicting that this limited-run series will become highly sought after by collectors.
The most notable change involves the Quarter, which will see a five-coin series focused on:
- The Declaration of Independence
- The U.S. Constitution
- The Revolutionary War
- The Gettysburg Address
- The Mayflower Compact, featuring Pilgrims and early colonial themes.
Many coins in the series will uniquely display both the mint year alongside the date 1776 ~ 2026, underscoring the continuity of the American story.
“The designs on these historic coins depict the story of America’s journey toward a ‘more perfect union,’ and celebrate America’s defining ideals of liberty,” said Acting Mint Director Kristie McNally. “We hope to offer each American the opportunity to hold our nation’s storied 250 years of history in the palms of their hands as we Connect America through Coins.”
Semiquincentennial circulating coins featuring the new designs and dual dates will be released into circulation in 2026.
Below you will find high-resolution images and descriptions of the new nickel, dime, and quarters that will appear in your pocket change in 2026.
The circulating dime, whose design has not changed in 80 years, will show Lady Liberty on its obverse (heads). The circulating quarter will feature five new designs related to American history. These coins, as well as the circulating nickel, will have a “1776 ~ 2026” dual date.
