The new 2013 Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine quarter was released into circulation during August. The fourth of five new 2013 designs, and 19th issue of the National Park quarter series, the new quarter portrays Fort McHenry during its annual Defenders’ Day celebration. The fireworks symbolize “the bombs bursting in air” at the cherished birthplace of America’s national anthem.
Constructed between 1799 and 1802 in the shape of a five-pointed star, Fort McHenry endured a two-day bombardment by British warships during the War of 1812 to successfully defend Baltimore Harbor. The sight of the fort’s huge 32′ x 40′ American flag still flying on the morning of September 14, 1814 inspired Francis Scott Key to write a poem he called “Defense of Fort McHenry” that later became The Star Spangled Banner.
Add the new 2013 Fort McHenry quarters to your collection today.
