A head of George Washington, the first President of the United States, facing left.

Designer: John Flanagan (JF), 1932 version from a 1786 bust by Houdon / William Cousins.

Central to the design is a young Abraham Lincoln superimposed on an outline of the state of Illinois. This is Abraham Lincoln's third appearance on United States coinage. An older Lincoln is depicted on the U.S. penny and on the 1918 Illinois Centennial Half Dollar. Abraham Lincoln, centered on the quarter, is based on a statue, "The Resolute Lincoln," by Avard Fairbanks.

Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865) was the 16th President of the United States, serving from March 1861 until his assassination in April 1865. Lincoln led the United States through its Civil War. In doing so, he preserved the Union, abolished slavery, strengthened the federal government, and modernized the economy.

The “Land of Lincoln” slogan was adopted in 1955 by the General Assembly. In that same year, the U.S. Congress passed a special act granting to the State of Illinois a copyright for exclusive use of the “Land of Lincoln” insignia.

Twenty-one stars and the inscription “21st State/Century” describes Illinois’ historical role as the 21st state to ratify the Constitution and the state’s present and future role in the Union.

An Illinois farm scene lies to the left of Mr. Lincoln, celebrating Illinois' rich agricultural tradition and the state's current leadership role.

To the right, the Chicago skyline is depicted representing Illinois' industrial leadership, business and financial climate, and the state's role as a major hub of international commerce. Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States. With over 2.7 million residents, it is the most populous city in the state of Illinois.

Engraver: Donna Weaver (DW).