A Closer Look at the Florida Series’ Artwork
The Florida Goldback series has garnered a lot of attention—and it’s not hard to see why. The artwork represents a significant turning point for Goldback, raising the bar and setting a new standard for future series. Each denomination is rich with symbolism, celebrating the state’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Let’s take a deeper dive into the details that make the Florida artwork truly one-of-a-kind.
1/2 - Half Goldback
Spes (Hope)
The Florida Half Goldback honors the virtue “Spes” (Hope) through the figure of a Spanish conquistador, kneeling before the mythical Fountain of Youth. She wears the fleur-de-lis emblem, representing the era of exploration when France briefly established a foothold in Florida with the Huguenots’ settlement of Fort Caroline near present-day Jacksonville. The settlement was later overtaken by the Spanish in 1565.
The year 1513 is etched in stone nearby, commemorating Juan Ponce de León’s voyage to Florida. He was inspired by Timucua legends of a spring believed to restore youth. This scene weaves together history and myth, portraying the conquistador’s hopeful quest for the rejuvenating spring and symbolizing humanity’s enduring pursuit of renewal and possibility.
Although Ponce de León never founded a settlement, his expedition paved the way for Spain’s continued exploration, culminating in Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founding St. Augustine in 1565—the oldest permanent European settlement in the United States. Set within a lush, tropical landscape, the artwork features Florida’s Zebra Longwing butterfly, a symbol of transformation. The resilient mockingbird, signifying perseverance, reflects explorers’ ambitions and the beauty of the New World.
A Florida Cracker horse—first introduced by the Spanish and later designated as the state’s official horse—stands beside Spes, symbolizing the endurance required on such treacherous journeys. At the water’s edge, a conch shell pays homage to the Timucua, whose heritage was deeply connected to the land and sea. The shell, used in rituals and communication, honors Florida’s indigenous culture that thrived before European contact.
This artwork, rich in symbolism, highlights the universal quest for renewal. The enduring principle, “Blessed are the meek,” honors those who humbly explore the unknown. It celebrates Florida’s history and the lasting legacy of St. Augustine as the birthplace of European settlement in the United States.
1 - One Goldback
Harmonia (Harmony)
The Florida One Goldback depicts the virtue “Harmonia” (Harmony) through the figure of a Spanish settler, embodying the delicate balance between nature, culture, and history during Florida’s early colonization. She wears cross-shaped earrings, representing the Catholic faith the Spanish settlers carried with them on their voyages. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine stands as a central element in this image, symbolizing the determination of settlers who laid the foundations of European civilization in the New World. In the background, the historic Castillo de San Marcos stands as a powerful emblem of strength. Built between 1672 and 1695 to protect St. Augustine, this fort is the oldest European settlement in the United States. It serves as a reminder of the settlers’ determination to preserve their foothold in "La Florida." A Spanish galleon sails on the horizon, flying the Florida Flag and the Spanish Cross—a testament to the bravery of those who journeyed across the seas to a new world.
Lush native flora surrounds Harmonia, illustrating the settlers’ efforts to coexist with Florida’s natural beauty. The sabal palm, Florida’s state tree, represents endurance and resilience, mirroring the settlers' spirit. The orange tree, bearing Florida’s state fruit, signifies the state’s agricultural legacy and economic growth. St. Augustine, believed to be the site of the first orange trees in Florida, marked the beginning of a citrus industry that would become central to the state’s economy. The orange blossom, Florida’s state flower, adds a touch of grace to the scene, symbolizing renewal and growth.
In the foreground, a Spanish guitar bears the engraving "Terra Incognita," meaning "unknown land," one of the earliest names given to Florida. This latin phrase reiterates the courage it took to enter uncharted territory. The guitar, an icon of Spanish culture, serves as a bridge between the settlers’ heritage and the unfamiliar world they encountered, reflecting the merging of Old and New World traditions.
From the flamingo to the orange tree, each detail signifies the settlers’ success in building a life in harmony with their surroundings. Harmonia stands as a tribute to the enduring legacy of those who embraced both land and culture in Florida, affirming the principle that there is “honor in discovery.”
2 - Two Goldbacks
Fortitudo (Fortitude)
The Florida Two Goldback celebrates the virtue "Fortitudo" (Fortitude), a tribute to the courage and strength of the Seminole people. This virtue was thoughtfully chosen in collaboration with staff members from the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, reflecting the Seminole Tribe’s enduring legacy. Through unity and resilience, the Seminole people resisted forced removal during the Seminole Wars, seeking refuge in the Everglades and emerging as a thriving, self-determined community. Today, the Seminole Tribe embodies fortitude through cultural preservation, business leadership, and environmental stewardship. Their legacy, from owning Hard Rock International to advancing education and conservation, signifies innovation and harmony with nature.
In this artwork, a Seminole woman stands proudly in a traditional dugout canoe, an iconic vessel vital for navigating the sloughs of the Everglades. She embodies the enduring principle, "Navigate with purpose." Her poised stance and steady paddle reflect balance and resilience as she journeys through waters that have sustained her people for generations. Behind her, a chickee hut—a raised, thatched structure ingeniously designed for Florida’s climate—symbolizes the Seminoles' adaptability and deep connection to their environment.
Her attire pays homage to Seminole cultural heritage, featuring a vibrant two-tiered patchwork dress that celebrates artistry passed down through generations. The intricate beadwork of her loop necklace and the traditional bun in her hair highlight her cultural identity, honoring the legacy of Seminole craftsmanship and tradition. Every detail was meticulously researched, respecting and commemorating Seminole history and values.
The Everglades environment surrounding her brims with biodiversity, illustrating the Seminole people’s profound respect for nature. Native wildlife such as largemouth bass, bluegill, and the Eastern Box Turtle symbolize the richness of the ecosystem. The Roseate Spoonbill, with its striking plumage, represents the beauty and balance of the Everglades. The West Indian River Otter, known for its resourcefulness and social behavior, mirrors the adaptability and community spirit of the Seminole Tribe.
A manatee glides through the water nearby, embodying Florida’s conservation successes. Once endangered due to habitat loss and boating collisions, the manatee’s recovery showcases decades of environmental efforts. Habitat restoration, public awareness campaigns, and protective measures have played a critical role in preserving this gentle species. Today, the Seminole Tribe actively collaborates with conservation groups to protect the Everglades, ensuring a thriving ecosystem for future generations.
Above her, the radiant Florida sun shines brightly, signifying renewal, growth, and life, while reflecting Florida’s identity as the Sunshine State. Together, these elements celebrate the legacy of fortitude—strength, courage, and harmony with nature—shared by the Seminole people and the vibrant wildlife of the Everglades.
5 - Five Goldbacks
Audax (Bold, Daring, Valiant)
The Florida Five Goldback features the virtue “Audax” (Daring), depicted as a privateer, honoring Florida’s rich history of piracy and adventure during the Age of Sail. This portrayal takes inspiration from the legendary tales of Anne Bonny and Charlotte de Berry. Anne Bonny, an Irish-born pirate of the early 18th century, was renowned for defying gender norms with her fierce spirit. Charlotte de Berry, often associated with Florida, was an adventurer known for tales of sailing as a pirate. Both women symbolize courage and the determination to break societal expectations of their time.
Florida’s coastline, with its hidden coves and treacherous waters, was a haven for pirates and privateers in the 17th and 18th centuries. They seized treasure-laden ships bound for European ports, and legendary pirates like Blackbeard and José Gaspar are rumored to have sailed these waters. Tales of lost treasure still linger along the Florida Keys and Gulf Coast. During this turbulent era, privateers, operating with government approval, played pivotal roles in shaping Florida’s maritime history. Their boldness and cunning strategy fueled their pursuit of fortune and glory on the high seas.
The choppy water and wind in the composition symbolize the hurricanes and inclement weather that Florida is famously known for. With its long coastline, Florida is one of the most hurricane-prone states in the U.S., enduring around 125 direct hits since records began in the mid-1800s. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, Florida has faced powerful storms like Andrew (1992), Michael (2018), and Irma (2017), all of which have left lasting marks on its history. The fierce winds and towering waves in the artwork reflect the resilience needed to weather these unpredictable forces of nature.
On the table before the privateer are tools symbolizing guidance and strategy. A compass rose directs her through uncertain seas, while a navigational divider represents precision, balancing boldness with careful planning. A lantern, symbolizing divine guidance, casts light on her path, embodying the hope and faith needed in times of peril. Together, these elements highlight the courage, strategy, and spiritual strength essential for navigating Florida’s storied maritime past.
Around her neck hangs a piece of eight, a symbol of the legendary treasures sought by pirates and privateers alike, specifically recalling the famous 1715 Spanish Treasure Fleet, lost off Florida’s coast in a hurricane. The pirate flag flying behind her, believed to be one of the first ever made, represents the dangers of the seas during the Golden Age of Sail and the rebellious spirit of those daring enough to seek their fortunes in treacherous waters. With each of these elements, the artwork embodies the enduring principle "bravery conquers the unknown."
10 - Ten Goldbacks
Innovatio (Innovation)
The Florida Ten Goldback highlights the virtue “Innovatio” (Innovation), depicted as a spirited flapper riding the Florida East Coast Railway (FEC). This artwork celebrates the transformative impact of the FEC, a visionary railway established by Henry Flagler in the late 1800s and early 1900s, which dramatically shaped Florida's economy and landscape. Originally connecting Jacksonville to St. Augustine, the FEC gradually expanded south, ultimately reaching Key West in 1912. Known as the "Overseas Railroad," this final stretch was an engineering feat that connected mainland Florida to the U.S.'s southernmost point, symbolizing humanity's capacity to innovate and overcome obstacles.
Our virtue Innovatio is styled as a 1920s flapper, representing the freedom, excitement, and new opportunities brought by the railway. Wind flows through her hair and dress as she smiles, capturing the liberation and excitement that the FEC inspired among Florida’s residents and visitors. An open train door behind her hints at the boundless horizons and innovations the railway unlocked, while the ticket in her hand speaks to the new adventures and journeys it enabled.
The train, inspired by the historic FEC locomotive No. 153 (a 4-6-2 ALCO steam engine now displayed at Miami’s Gold Coast Railroad Museum), is steeped in history. This locomotive once transported President Calvin Coolidge and was one of the last trains to run before the devastating 1935 hurricane, which severely damaged the Key West extension and ended its operational life.
Surrounding Innovatio are symbols of Florida’s vibrant natural and cultural landscapes: a sandwich tern and brown pelican soar above, representing the region’s unique wildlife. Bottlenose dolphins swim below, connecting to Florida’s rich marine life and symbolizing wisdom and adaptability. In the background, arches inspired by the iconic stone arches of the Overseas Railroad pay homage to the engineering brilliance required to span the open waters of the Keys. These arches reflect not only the railway’s physical achievement across challenging terrain but also the resilience and vision that helped Florida’s east coast thrive.
Through this artwork, Innovatio manifests the enduring principle, “Innovative ideas build futures.” She celebrates the Florida East Coast Railway as a monumental achievement that reshaped Florida’s history, embodying the thrill of discovery, the triumph of human ingenuity, and the resilience needed to forge ahead into new frontiers.
25 - Twenty-Five Goldbacks
Conservare (Conserve)
The Florida 25 Goldback brings to life the virtue "Conservare" (Protector or Preserver), embodied by a steadfast conservationist in the heart of the Everglades. Established in 1947, Everglades National Park is recognized for its rich biodiversity and was the first U.S. park dedicated to preserving an entire ecosystem. This landmark underscores Florida’s role as a leader in environmental protection and ecological balance.
Conservare, an explorer navigating the wetlands with purposeful determination, represents all those who aim to “conserve the beauty” of Florida’s diverse biomes. Equipped for the wild, the explorer’s steady gaze shows a deep sense of responsibility for the land. Surrounding her are iconic species that illustrate stories of resilience and recovery. The alligator, once on the endangered list, now thrives as a testament to successful wildlife protection. The elusive Florida panther and the snail kite serve as reminders of the continuous efforts to preserve critical habitats. Meanwhile, the great blue heron soars above, embodying hope for the restoration of Florida’s wetlands.
A Burmese python, coiled in a nearby tree, adds tension to the scene, representing the threat of invasive species that disrupt the Everglades’ natural balance. Introduced through the exotic pet trade, this predator is a reminder of the ongoing challenges conservationists face. Together, native and invasive species show the complexities of preserving this unique ecosystem.
This artwork honors Florida’s commitment to conservation, celebrating both the state’s natural wonders and the dedicated people working to protect them. The Everglades, with its rich history and ecological importance, stands as a tribute to the resilience of nature and the passion of those who preserve it for future generations.
50 - Fifty Goldbacks
Amor Patriae (Love of Country, Patriotism)
The Florida 50 Goldback presents the virtue “Amor Patriae” (Love of Country) through the depiction of a Women’s Airforce Service Pilot (WASP). The young pilot, flying a P-51 Mustang, embodies the patriotism and bravery of women who served in WWII. She soars over the historic Hendricks Army Airfield, a key site in advancing military aviation. This scene captures a powerful moment of dedication, honoring the contributions of women who courageously served to protect the nation.
Sunlight reflects off the plane’s canopy, highlighting the pilot’s steady grip on the controls and her precise skill in maneuvering this iconic aircraft. She is a testament to the enduring principle, "Be watchful, stand firm." Her uniform proudly bears insignias honoring her service, including the WWII WASP, the U.S. Army Corps, the Air Transport Command, and the American flag. These emblems commemorate the critical role of women who transported essential aircraft and supplies during the war.
Dedicated to the 1.5 million veterans in Florida and all who serve, this denomination pays tribute to those whose courage fortified the nation. In both war and peace, their contributions have secured a lasting legacy. May this piece stand as a lasting tribute to their sacrifices, inspiring gratitude and a commitment to honoring their legacy.
100 - One Hundred Goldbacks
Libertas (Liberty)
The Florida 100 Goldback features Libertas (Liberty), the capstone virtue that concludes each state series. She stands as a powerful symbol of freedom, a pursuit that is both timeless and universal. Libertas, inspired by the Roman goddess of freedom, is depicted as a formidable figure pulling a weathered ship through turbulent waters. The waves represent the dangers faced by those seeking liberty, and the weathered ship reflects the arduous journeys they took to escape tyranny. With a determined and compassionate disposition, Libertas embodies the resilience needed to reach a place of safety and opportunity.
This artwork is inspired by the story of Cuban immigration to Florida, which gained momentum in the 1950s as political and economic unrest swept through Cuba. The overthrow of Fulgencio Batista and the rise of Fidel Castro’s government in 1959 brought sweeping societal changes, marked by the loss of political freedoms, the seizure of private property, and harsh crackdowns on dissent. Facing persecution, many Cubans left everything behind, undertaking dangerous journeys across treacherous waters—often in fragile, makeshift boats—to reach the safety of Florida. These immigrants profoundly shaped the cultural and demographic landscape of Miami and Florida, transforming it into a refuge and a symbol of hope for those fleeing communism.
Libertas herself is adorned with meaningful symbols. The chains in her hand, broken but still visible, represent the struggles and sacrifices required to achieve liberty. Her flowing attire is embellished with star accents, symbolizing high ideals, while the North Star above her reinforces themes of hope and guidance. Around her neck, a key-shaped necklace signifies unlocking new possibilities and protecting freedom. Her seven-pointed crown, symbolizing the seven seas and continents, represents the universal hope for freedom across the world.
The shoreline reflects Florida’s coastal environment. Sea turtle hatchlings symbolize resilience and the continuation of life, while shells scattered along the shore symbolize protection. In the distance, the Cape Florida Lighthouse stands as a beacon of hope, mirroring the landmark that welcomed many Cuban exiles to Florida’s shores. At Libertas’s feet, her name is etched into stone, signifying the enduring and unbreakable nature of liberty.
Above the scene, a rocket launches into the sky, paying homage to Florida’s space legacy. The Apollo 11 mission launched from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on July 16, 1969. The rocket represents enlightenment, progress, and the pursuit of knowledge beyond known boundaries. A footprint in the sand commemorates the first human step on the moon, reflecting the triumph of human achievement. The moon above, casting a soft light on the scene, serves as both a guiding beacon and a reminder of humanity’s aspirations and boundless potential.
Together, these elements create a richly layered narrative that honors the courage required to overcome adversity, the relentless pursuit of freedom, and the boundless possibilities awaiting those who dare to seek a better life. This piece celebrates Florida’s legacy as a safe harbor, reminding viewers that, no matter the obstacles, the human spirit will always strive for liberty and new horizons.
1 - Limited Early Release One Goldbacks
Tranquilitas (Tranquility)
The limited early release Florida One Goldback introduces the virtue “Tranquilitas” (Tranquility), a symbol of peace and serenity. She wades gracefully through the clear, vibrant waters of Florida’s coast, home to the world’s third-largest coral reef. Known for its biodiversity, this reef has been a vital part of the ecosystem, supporting marine life such as fish, sea turtles, and coral species native to the region. The coral reef represents Florida’s natural heritage and celebrates the state’s role in preserving this delicate underwater world.
The vibrant setting also exemplifies Florida’s long-standing relationship with the sea. For centuries, the state’s coasts have been a hub of maritime history, from early Spanish explorers navigating its waters to modern-day marine conservation efforts. The ship drifting in the background, under calm skies and placid waters, reflects Florida’s identity as both a center for adventure and a haven of relaxation. The soft breeze that carries through Tranquilitas' hair mirrors the gentle winds that have long guided sailors through these coastal waters.
The scene is completed with swaying palm trees and a radiant sun on the horizon, calling attention to Florida’s nickname the “Sunshine State.” The resilient trees, like the people of Florida, have weathered countless storms yet continue to stand tall. The flowers in Tranquilitas’ hand—plumerias—carry the symbolism of love, beauty, and serenity, offering a message of harmony between people and nature. The artwork, with its calming seascape and radiant wildlife, echoes the sentiment, “calm waters, calm mind.”
