PAGO PAGO, American Samoa � U.S. Mint Deputy Director Andy Brunhart was in Pago Pago for the launching of the American Samoa quarter.

The coin is part of a program authorized by Congress after the 50-state quarter program proved to be so popular and profitable.
Brunhart said Thursday that the coin honoring American Samoa�s �vibrant traditional culture and rugged beauty is a welcome addition to American coinage.�
One side of the coin depicts an ava bowl, which is used in a ceremony to welcome guests and visitors. The other side bears the inscription �Samoa Muamua Le Atua,� which in Samoan means, �Samoa, God is First.�
Youngsters under 17 who attended the launching were given free quarters.
American Samoa is a U.S. territory located in the South Pacific, about 2,300 miles south of Hawaii.