BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
Celia Cruz, the renowned “Queen of Salsa,” has been the first Afro-Latina to appear on a US quarter, as part of the 2024 American Women Quarters Program.
A dynamic tribute to a musical legend
Cruz, known for her powerful voice, flamboyant style, and legendary performances, now appears on the quarter as a tribute to her larger-than-life personality.
Phebe Hemphill, a medallic artist for the United States Mint, created the quarter’s design, which faced the problem of depicting Cruz’s vivacity on such a small canvas. “I knew I had to make the design for superstar Celia Cruz as dynamic as she was,” Hemphill said. Hemphill used a combination of traditional clay relief sculpting and current 3D imaging technologies to reflect the singer’s “greatness and vitality” inspired by Cruz’s famed rumba attire.
Cruz’s incredible journey from Havana to the world
Cruz’s legendary prominence in music stems from both her voice and her unique presence. Her improvisational lyrics, energetic dancing, and magnetic exuberance” made her a symbol of joy and resilience. Her unique style had a lasting impact, and some of her dazzling outfits are now part of the Smithsonian’s collection.
The quarter’s design features Cruz in her typical flamboyant outfit, smiling with her famous slogan, “¡Azúcar!” This cry, which originated as a jest about Cuba’s strong coffee, became synonymous with Cruz and her performances, capturing the warmth and sweetness she brought to the stage.
Cruz was born in Havana in 1925, and her passion for singing propelled her from local cabarets to international fame. Following the Cuban Revolution, she relocated to the United States, where her career thrived, earning platinum albums, Grammy awards, and duets with giants like Tito Puente. “I have fulfilled my father’s wish to be a teacher,” Cruz once stated, reflecting on her influence through music. “As a performer, I want people to feel their hearts sing and their spirits soar.”
Celia Cruz’s journey from Havana to the global stage is one of passion, perseverance, and cultural pride. Her appearance on the United States quarter not only commemorates her tremendous history but also recognizes the significant contributions of Afro-Latinas to American culture.
