Andy Vázquez, the Cuban actor and comedian known as Facundo from Vivir del Cuento, has announced that he will be giving away coins featuring the image of Celia Cruz to his followers. "I have one hundred," he confirmed. The artist, who is based in Miami, stated that it was an honor to have the image of the Cuban music legend on quarters circulating in the United States.
Vázquez showcased a bag filled with these special quarters, which he is eager to distribute to his fans. Many of his followers have expressed their desire to obtain one of these coins. Even several residents in Cuba have requested to have some sent to them. Last July, comedian Ulises Toirac suggested that Cubans living in the United States start sending these Celia Cruz quarters to Cuba as a way to honor the iconic artist who passed away in 2003.
Special Edition Celia Cruz Quarters
The 25-cent coin dedicated to Celia Cruz began circulating this August as part of a special edition within the American Women Quarters 2024 program. This initiative by the U.S. government recognizes five distinguished women of the nation. According to the description provided by the U.S. Mint, the obverse (heads side) features a portrait of George Washington, originally designed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the first president's birth.
The reverse side of the coin presents Celia Cruz with her dazzling smile, performing in a rumba-style dress. Her famous catchphrase “¡AZÚCAR!” is inscribed to the right. The Queen of Salsa, who became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1977, is the first Afro-Latina figure to be immortalized on a U.S. coin.
Celia Cruz, one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century, was born in Havana on October 21, 1925. She went into exile in 1960, and her music was banned from media outlets by the Castro regime. However, Cubans on the island defied the censorship and continued to listen to her music in private.
Frequently Asked Questions About Celia Cruz Quarters
Here are some common questions and answers about the special edition Celia Cruz quarters.
How can I get a Celia Cruz quarter?
You can obtain the Celia Cruz quarter through various means, including coin retailers, online marketplaces, or by contacting Andy Vázquez if you are one of his followers.
What is the significance of Celia Cruz being on a U.S. quarter?
Celia Cruz's appearance on a U.S. quarter is significant as it honors her legacy as a music icon and marks her as the first Afro-Latina to be featured on U.S. currency.
When did the Celia Cruz quarters start circulating?
The Celia Cruz quarters began circulating in August 2024 as part of the American Women Quarters program.