Olympia, Wash. – In a press release issued on November 9, Governor Bob Ferguson announced that the late Seattle‑born singer‑songwriter and guitarist Jimi Hendrix has been chosen to represent Washington on the U.S. Mint Innovation Coin program. The decision highlights Hendrix’s historic contributions to music and his deep roots in the Evergreen State.
Innovation Coin program background
The U.S. Mint Innovation Coin series was created to honor individuals, groups or concepts that have driven notable innovation in each state and U.S. territory. Four new one‑dollar coins are minted each year, with the series slated to run through 2032. Washington’s coin is scheduled for release in 2029.
Why Jimi Hendrix?
Hendrix, born November 27, 1942, grew up in Seattle, attending Horace Mann Elementary, Washington Junior High and Garfield High School before a brief stint in the Army. His groundbreaking electric‑guitar techniques reshaped rock music worldwide, earning him a place in the cultural heritage of Washington. Governor Ferguson said, “The Innovation Coin program is a unique opportunity to honor our history and share Washington’s story. Picking just one example from the most innovative state in the nation was difficult, but Jimi Hendrix’s historic innovation on guitar and his deep roots in Washington make him a great choice to represent our state.”
Previous honors
This recognition follows several recent accolades for the legendary musician. In 2023, the Rolling Stones named Hendrix the greatest guitarist of all time. Two years earlier, Governor Ferguson posthumously awarded him the Washington State Medal of Merit, underscoring the state’s ongoing commitment to celebrating its cultural icons.
Other finalists
The Innovation Coin selection process began with public submissions and a review panel that narrowed the field to five finalists. Alongside Hendrix, the finalists included environmental activist Billy Frank Jr., the emergency‑medical initiatives Medic One and Medic Two, martial‑arts legend Bruce Lee, and a proposal focused on Indigenous ecosystem management. All were unanimously approved for the governor’s final consideration.
Design and production
Once the honoree is selected, the coin’s design will be developed with input from the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts. The final artwork must be approved by the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury before the coins are minted and released to the public.
Washington residents and collectors can look forward to seeing the Hendrix‑featured coin in 2029, a tangible reminder of the state’s rich musical heritage and its tradition of innovation.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
