The reverse design of the Colorado Quarter features the Rocky Mountains. The inscriptions include the State name, Statehood date, mintage date, “E Pluribus Unum,” and a banner reading “Colorful Colorado.” The coin’s reverse was designed and engraved by Norman Nemeth.

Colorado’s Rocky Mountains contain many of the natural wonders of the United States. The reverse design shows a sweeping view of the mountains with evergreen trees in the foreground.

The governor formed the Colorado Commemorative Quarter Advisory Commission. After reviewing more than 1,500 designs, five finalists were forwarded to the United States Mint. The governor selected “Colorful Colorado” as his design choice. The US Treasury Department gave final approval of the design. Other concepts considered for the Colorado Quarter included Mesa Verde, Pines Peak, and the 10th Mountain Division.