On June 2, 2025, the United States Mint began shipping the highly anticipated 2025 American Women Quarters (AWQ) Program coin, paying tribute to the late Dr. Vera Rubin, one of the most influential astronomers of the 20th century. The coin, which is the third release in the 2025 series, honors Dr. Rubin’s groundbreaking contributions to the field of astronomy, particularly her pioneering observations that provided the first compelling evidence for the existence of dark matter.
Dr. Rubin’s work, especially her research on the rotation of galaxies, fundamentally changed our understanding of the universe. In the 1970s, she and her colleague Kent Ford discovered that the outer regions of galaxies rotated much faster than expected, a phenomenon that could not be explained by the visible matter alone. Their observations suggested the presence of a vast, invisible substance—later named dark matter—that accounted for the gravitational effects observed in galaxies. This discovery opened new avenues for scientific exploration and has had lasting implications for cosmology and astrophysics.
The coin, which will be produced at the U.S. Mint’s facilities in Philadelphia and Denver, features a portrait of Dr. Rubin, capturing her legacy as a trailblazer in a field historically dominated by men. The design also includes symbolic elements related to her work, such as representations of galaxies, further emphasizing the profound impact she had on modern astronomy. The Mint’s American Women Quarters Program, which began in 2022, aims to honor the lives and achievements of notable American women who have made significant contributions to the nation’s history.
Dr. Rubin’s recognition on a U.S. coin is part of a broader movement to celebrate women in science and other fields who have long been overlooked or underrepresented. Despite her transformative contributions, Dr. Rubin was often excluded from mainstream scientific recognition during her lifetime. It was only in recent years that her work has been widely acknowledged, with many attributing much of the current research in dark matter and galaxy rotation to her insights.
The 2025 AWQ series is especially significant, as it highlights the achievements of women who helped shape various aspects of American society. Other honorees in the series include political leaders, cultural icons, and women from various professional fields, all of whom played a vital role in advancing social progress and scientific discovery.
Dr. Rubin’s story is particularly inspiring for young women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Her persistence and commitment to her research, despite facing numerous barriers, serve as a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in scientific exploration. The coin honoring her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to continue her work and push the boundaries of human knowledge.
The United States Mint has long been a champion of honoring influential figures through coinage, and the American Women Quarters Program is a continuation of this tradition. By featuring the likenesses of women like Dr. Rubin, the Mint not only celebrates their achievements but also educates the public about the vital contributions that women have made throughout history.
As the 2025 coin series begins to circulate, collectors, scientists, and history enthusiasts alike will no doubt appreciate the opportunity to hold a piece of history in their hands. For those interested in acquiring the Dr. Vera Rubin quarter or learning more about the American Women Quarters Program, the United States Mint is offering a range of products through its website, including limited-edition coins and sets.
This release is a fitting tribute to Dr. Rubin’s lasting impact on the field of astronomy and the continued exploration of the cosmos. Her legacy, forever etched in the fabric of scientific discovery, will now be commemorated for years to come in the pockets of Americans across the nation.