The largest commemorative coin production by the United States Mint started in 1999 with the introduction of the 50 State Quarters program. Each of the 50 states is featured with a design unique to that state--a novel concept in US coins. The uniqueness may honor the state's traditions, symbols, or history, and a resident of the state is chosen by the state government to submit the design.

The portrait of George Washington has been on the 'head' or obverse side of every quarter dollar since 1932. In 1976, a bicentennial reverse was designed. This is the only time since 1976 (until the State Quarters program) that the design of the quarter has been changed. On these new quarters, the obverse side continues to pay tribute to the first president of the United States.

The State Quarters are being released in the order of admission to the Union. The first five were Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey in 1787, followed by Georgia and Connecticut in 1788. A hundred years later, Washington State was admitted to the Union, becoming the 42nd state. The State Quarters to honor Washington, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah are scheduled for release in 2007.

The ultimate arbiter of the design of the quarter is the Washington State Quarter Advisory Commission. All state quarters were designed by state residents, making them incredibly unique for coin collectors. Once chosen by the committee, each design is sent to the US Mint for production, its release anticipated by serious collectors and hobbyists alike.