Dr. Vera Rubin

The obverse (heads) depicts a portrait of George Washington. This design was originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser as a candidate entry for the 1932 quarter, which honored the bicentennial of George Washington’s birth. Inscriptions are “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “2025.”

The reverse (tails) design features a profile of Dr. Vera Rubin gazing upward, smiling as she contemplates the cosmos. She is surrounded by a spiral galaxy and other celestial bodies. Inscriptions include “DR. VERA RUBIN,” “QUARTER DOLLAR,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The additional inscription, “DARK MATTER,” the invisible mass found in our galaxy, is inscribed at the bottom of the design.

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2025 Dr. Vera Rubin Quarter: Honoring a Pioneer of Dark Matter Discovery

The 2025 Dr. Vera Rubin Quarter is the 18th release in the American Women Quarters™ Program, a celebrated initiative by the United States Mint that honors influential women who have shaped American history and culture. This coin pays tribute to Dr. Vera Rubin, a groundbreaking astronomer whose research provided compelling evidence for the existence of dark matter, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe.

Who Was Dr. Vera Rubin?

Dr. Vera Rubin (1928–2016) was an American astronomer whose work fundamentally changed the field of astrophysics. In the 1970s, Rubin’s observations of galaxy rotation curves revealed discrepancies that could only be explained by the presence of unseen mass—what we now call dark matter. Her findings challenged existing models of the universe and laid the foundation for modern cosmology.

Despite facing gender-based barriers in a male-dominated scientific community, Rubin persevered and became a leading advocate for women in STEM. She mentored young scientists, championed diversity in science, and inspired generations of astronomers. Her legacy continues to influence both scientific research and efforts to promote equity in academia.

Coin Design Details

The obverse (heads) of the 2025 Dr. Vera Rubin Quarter features a classic portrait of George Washington, originally designed by Laura Gardin Fraser in 1932 to commemorate the bicentennial of Washington’s birth. This elegant design includes the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the year “2025.”

The reverse (tails) of the coin is a stunning tribute to Dr. Rubin’s contributions. It depicts her in profile, gazing upward with a gentle smile, symbolizing her lifelong curiosity and passion for the cosmos. Surrounding her are a spiral galaxy and various celestial bodies, representing the vast universe she helped us better understand.

The inscriptions on the reverse include “DR. VERA RUBIN,” “QUARTER DOLLAR,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” A special inscription, “DARK MATTER,” appears at the bottom of the design, highlighting the invisible yet essential component of the universe that Rubin helped bring to light.

The American Women Quarters Program

The American Women Quarters Program, launched in 2022, is a four-year initiative celebrating the achievements of women who have made significant contributions to the United States. Each year, five new quarters are released, each featuring a different honoree from diverse backgrounds and fields, including science, civil rights, literature, and government.

By featuring Dr. Vera Rubin in the 2025 series, the U.S. Mint recognizes the importance of scientific discovery and the role of women in advancing our understanding of the natural world. Rubin’s inclusion in this program not only honors her legacy but also encourages young women to pursue careers in science and technology.

A Must-Have for Collectors and Science Enthusiasts

The Dr. Vera Rubin Quarter is expected to be a highly sought-after coin among collectors, educators, and astronomy enthusiasts. Its unique design and historical significance make it a standout piece in the American Women Quarters collection.

Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or someone inspired by Rubin’s story, this coin offers a meaningful way to celebrate her contributions and support the broader movement for gender equity in STEM fields.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Dr. Vera Rubin Quarter is more than just a piece of currency—it’s a tribute to a woman whose work changed the way we see the universe. Through the American Women Quarters Program, the U.S. Mint continues to shine a light on the stories of women who have shaped our nation’s history. Dr. Rubin’s coin serves as a reminder of the power of curiosity, perseverance, and scientific discovery.