WEIR FARM QUARTER: A NATIONAL PARK FOR ART

Don't be surprised if you wind up holding a little piece of Connecticut in your hand one day soon.

On Monday, April 6, the United States Mint officially released a quarter bearing the image of Weir Farm National Historic Site. The coin is part of the Mint's America the Beautiful Quarters® Program, which honors national sites in each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories.

The coin is being released into general circulation, but it will not be available at the park. It depicts an artist painting en plein air, with J. Alden Weir's studio in the background. It proclaims that Weir Farm is "A National Park for Art."

The coin was designed by Artistic Infusion Program artist Justin Kunz and sculpted by Medallic artist Phebe Hemphill, who are both credited with the artistry of several coins issued by the Mint.

There was to have been a celebration at Weir Farm on April 6 and 7, but due to restrictions on large public gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic, the special events planned for the launch of the quarter were canceled. The park is hopeful a future date can be set to hold a coin forum and celebration.

Weir Farm is the only national park dedicated to American painting, and was home Julian (J.) Alden Weir, often referred to as the "father of American Impressionism." He settled here in the late 1800s, painting extensively in the gardens, at the pond, and throughout the rest of the grounds. Many of his contemporaries came to visit and paint as well.

A succession of artists, including Mahonri Young and Sperry Andrews, followed in his footsteps.

To read the complete article, see:
New quarter honors Weir Farm (https://www.wiltonbulletin.com/news/article/New-quarter-honors-Weir-Farm-15196553.php)

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