United States Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore today joined United States Postal Service Chief Marketing Officer Anita Bizzotto and 'Miss America' Erika Harold in the main rotunda of the Mall of America to unveil the 50 State Quarters® Greetings from America Series.

"The United States Mint and the Postal Service are pleased to debut this genuine American product," said United States Mint Director Henrietta Holsman Fore. "The coin and stamp series represents the history of a proud nation, rich in culture, diversity and enduring values."

Hundreds of shoppers and collectors witnessed the unveiling of the 50 State Quarters Greetings from America Portfolios and State Cards. Following the ceremony, dignitaries signed autographs on special event cards.

"The Postal Service is proud to join the United States Mint in the introduction of this fun and educational program," said Bizzotto. "Bringing together the Greetings from America postage stamps and the 50 State Quarters Program is sure to be a hit with all Americans."

In August, the United States Mint and the Postal Service signed an agreement to develop and market products that combine two of America's most popular collectibles - the 50 State Quarters Program and the Greetings from America stamps. The new products will be available for sale through the United States Mint website, www.usmint.gov, by ordering toll free at 1-800-USA-MINT.

Launched in 1999, the United States Mint's 50 State Quarters Program is a 10-year initiative that honors each of the nation's states in the order that they were admitted into the Union. Each quarter is produced for about 10 weeks and will never be produced again. Surveys show that over 139 million adults are collecting the quarters.

Created by Congress in 1792, the United States Mint is the manufacturer of legal tender coinage for the United States. In fiscal year 2002, the United States Mint manufactured approximately 15 billion coins and generated revenue of $1.8 billion.

With facilities in five states and the District of Columbia, the United States Mint has customers in 54 countries and is the world's 30th largest e-retailer. For more information, please visit www.usmint.gov.