Delaware State Quarter: This was the first coin released in the 50 State Quarters program, issued on January 4, 1999.
Design: The reverse of the coin features Caesar Rodney on horseback, commemorating his historic ride in 1776 to cast a decisive vote for American independence, symbolizing Delaware's role as "The First State" to ratify the U.S. Constitution.
Minting: The quarters were minted in both Philadelphia and Denver, with minting limited to ten weeks.
Historical Context: The set highlights Delaware's history, including Caesar Rodney's ride and the significance of Birkenhead Mill, near the site of the original DuPont gunpowder works, where America's chemical industry was born.
Union Entry: Delaware entered the Union on December 7, 1787.