Two 2026 United States coins will feature designs by 星空传媒 College Illustration Department head Christina Hess. The new quarter, part of the , showcases scientist Dr. Vera Rubin. Hess also designed a new $1 coin depicting Native Hawaiian scholar Mary Kawena Pukui as part of the Native American $1 Coin Program.
Proofs of the new series of quarters with Dr. Vera Rubin in the center, above.
Honoring these historical figures within the confines of the coins鈥� physical structure presented a unique challenge for Hess. 鈥淚t was a privilege to delve into the life and groundbreaking contributions of Dr. Vera Rubin, whose discovery of dark matter revolutionized our understanding of the universe,鈥� she said. 鈥淚llustrating her portrait and translating elements of her legacy into a small, circular design was both challenging and inspiring.鈥�
Mary Kawena Pukui, known as 鈥渁 Living Legend of Hawaii,鈥� is renowned for her studies and celebration of Native Hawaiian culture, including the language, history, music, and dance.
鈥淔rom capturing her majestic presence to including the kukui nut lei and hibiscus in her hair, I enjoyed every moment of the creation process,鈥� said Hess. 鈥淚鈥檓 proud to be part of such a meaningful program that highlights the incredible people in American history.鈥�
The $1 coins were first released on the Mint鈥檚 website, Denver and Philadelphia gift shops, and The Coin Store in Washington, D.C., on January 28 of this year. The Rubin quarters are scheduled to be released this summer.
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