by Zurellys Villegas
The music of Celia Cruz, one of the most emblematic voices of salsa, continues to resonate throughout the world. As a new tribute to her legacy, the United States Mint has launched a commemorative 25-cent coin with the image of the iconic Cuban singer.
The coin, part of the American Women Quarters Program series, shows a radiant Celia Cruz, dressed in a typical Cuban dress and accompanied by her famous exclamation “Azúcar!”.
This recognition positions the Queen of Salsa as the first Afro-Latina to be honored in this way by the American institution.
A tribute to a legend
Omer Pardillo-Cid, executor of Celia Cruz’s estate, expressed his emotion at this new honor. “Celia was a simple and humble woman,” he said, and I am sure she would be very surprised and honored.
The late singer’s last artistic representative then said: “Celia received so many awards during her life that it was difficult to expect that she would be given a greater honor than those she had already accumulated during her legendary career.”
“The adjective ‘unique’ has been used a lot, but I really can’t find another that is more true to describe Celia Cruz. Unique and eternal,” he continued.
The choice of Celia Cruz for this series is no coincidence. Her music transcended borders and generations of all times, making her a global icon. The Cuban singer received numerous awards throughout her career, including multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy awards. Her legacy continues to grow, and her image has been immortalized on postage stamps, Barbie dolls and now, on an American coin.
A big celebration
To celebrate this milestone, Leon Medical Centers, a prominent health institution in the United States, has decided to give away the commemorative coin in a special case. Those interested can register at CeliaCruzEnLeon.com for more information on how to acquire this collectible piece.
“This project has a special place in my heart,” said Benjamin Leon, Jr., founder of Leon Medical Centers. “We are proud to partner with the Celia Cruz estate to honor her legacy.”
2025 marks the 100th anniversary of Cruz’s birth, and this release is just the beginning of the celebrations. Recently, the album “Celia Cruz en Vivo: 100 Años de Azúcar” was released, which includes previously unreleased recordings of the singer.
The Celia Cruz 25-cent coin
On the obverse of the new coin is a portrait of George Washington, originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser to commemorate her 200th anniversary, the Mint said in a statement.
On the reverse is “a dynamic image of Celia Cruz showing her dazzling smile while performing in a rumba costume. On the right is her characteristic slogan “SUGAR!”, she adds.
The 25-cent coin with the face of the famous artist is already in circulation.
Celia Cruz and her legacy
Celia Cruz was one of the most iconic singers of Latin music. She was born in Havana in 1925 and at the age of 36 she went into exile in 1961, and never returned to her country. She dedicated her entire life to music. Her charisma and her unmistakable voice made her one of the most beloved and admired artists in the world.
Songs such as “La vida es un carnaval” and “Bemba colorá” strengthened her international fame after her time with the Fania All-Stars, and previously with the famous orchestra Sonora Matancera. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and salsa lovers.
The Celia Cruz commemorative coin is a well-deserved tribute to a music legend. This recognition It not only honors the Cuban singer, but also all the women who have left an indelible mark on the history of the United States.
