Tuesday, February 12, 2008

500 Million Scissor-tailed Flycatchers Now in Migration

On January 28 more than 500 million Scissor-tailed Flycatchers went into migration when the U.S. Mint released the first commemorative quarter-dollar coin of 2008 honoring the 46th state -- my home state of Oklahoma and our State Bird - Tyrannus forficatus.

photograph by Bill Horn

I glassed my first one today - found in the random change of a quick grocery purchase. I've been waiting. I held this first find in my palm as if I had just discovered a nugget of gold - marvel, awe, and pride ensued.

Blogger's first Oklahoma quarter

As a "born-again birdwatcher" and lover of both coins and Oklahoma -- I couldn't be more proud of the symbol chosen to represent my state. It now holds rank and honor among the bird-featured coins I've collected from all over the world.

The flycatcher on the coin is soaring over a field of galardia -- more commonly called Indian blanket - the State wildflower. It's a perfect combination that celebrates the vast and ephemeral beauty of our stunning prairie lands. Bravo to the people of Oklahoma for selecting a very worthy tribute for the 46th commemorative quarter-dollar coin.

16 comments:

;o said...

And rightfully proud you should be. I've never seen a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher. Fascinating bird to look up. I too, have a few bird coins.

Tom Arbour said...

Now that is a great design for a quarter!

Tom

Anonymous said...

I haven't seen a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, either. WOW. There is such a strong pulse of life and love in your photography and your descriptions of the world around you that often I get a little teary when reading your blog. You are on a constant pilgrimage to seek out delicate moments of beauty and I count myself fortunate that I can accompany you.

KGMom said...

Kudos to Oklahoma for choosing such beauty for its commemorative quarter.

Lana Gramlich said...

I'd love to see any of the flycatchers. Very nice coin. :)

Mary said...

That's a nice coin, T.R. Oklahoma should be proud! My husband has been collecting coins for years so I do understand that some coins are very special :o)

Andree said...

I'm so glad this quarter is out. I think it is one of the prettiest (besides Connecticut, but I'm biased!). Beautiful engraving and subject.

Crayons said...

Your enthusiasm sparks into my living room in Wisconsin. You have opened my eyes, TR. I'm going to look closely at my change this week. Thanks.

Alan Scott said...

It's been years since I've seen a scissor-tailed Flycatcher. They don't frequent Texas and they certainly don't swing through Virginia. I'll keep an eye out for one during my next visit to Oklahoma.
Thanks for the post, T.R. It's a beautiful bird and great coin!

BigAssBelle said...

now that is outstanding. kudos to the designer. do you know who's responsible for this petite work of art? i haven't seen one yet, will have to keep an eye and a hand open. i'm on hiatus from shopping this week. perhaps after sunday . . .

Julie Zickefoose said...

Here's to finding joy and great meaning in small things. Like Crayons, I'll be peering into each handful of change for some time now. Thank you.

I love your lagarto in the next post. It seems we've walked so many of the same paths, Tim!

jaysonwithaY said...

I miss scissor-tails, as an Okie-child once, now in NC. Thanks for the head's up(I know, tails up). I'll pay more attention to the quarters now.

Anonymous said...

From another rightfully proud Okie, that's one particular bird. If I can add my two bits, I nominate us for Best Quarter Award.

Dave Coulter said...

Very cool design. Can't wait to see it at the cash registers!

Anonymous said...

Fantastic! Looks similar to a Phoenix!

Anonymous said...

I love Scissor-tailed Flycatchers, i saw 3 in Missouri, but ive not seen any in my home state of Florida.

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