Wow. A renaissance you say?

Nation to Get Newly Designed Nickels

WASHINGTON – The nickel will soon have a new look. President Bush has signed an historic bill that authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to change the designs of 5-cent coins issued in 2003, 2004 and 2005 in recognition of the bicentennial of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition. The design of the nickel has remained unchanged since 1938. In 2006, the nickel will return to a depiction of President Thomas Jefferson on the “heads” side and an image of Jefferson’s home, Monticello, on the “tails” side.

“It is a new century, and the United States is in a renaissance of coin design,” said United States Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore. “This is a very historic moment. It marks the first time in 65 years that Americans will reach into their pockets and pull out newly designed nickels.” [...]

::sniff:: At last liberation comes!! An entire generation doomed to grow up without having the joy of reaching into their pockets and pulling out a newly designed nickel!! We is SAVED!!

[...] More than 130 million Americans are collecting coins in the United States Mint’s 50 State Quarters® Program. I expect these new nickels will encourage even more interest in coin collecting,” added Director Fore. “Through these coins, Americans of all ages are learning about the geography, the history and the values of our great Nation. Now we will have new designs on the nickel commemorating the Lewis and Clark expedition and the Louisiana Purchase. Think about the discussions families will have around the dinner table!”

It simply boggles the mind, don't it.

"Why dear, is that a roll of Lewis and Clark nickels in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?!"

"Yes on BOTH counts, sweetheart--you know, I knew nothing of our country's great heritage until I won these new nickels as I was playing the video poker game at the truck stop. But now, I know that our great nation was explored by two tiny little explorers--look here--see how little they are? And you know this Jefferson guy--he's NOT the same guy as on The Jeffersons!"
posted by Terry at 3:03:00 PM