U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., on Thursday announced the introduction of a bill celebrating America’s national parks by depicting them on quarters. The proposed first coin will depict Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park.

 “As the nation’s first national park, it is only fitting that Yellowstone, as a part of Wyoming’s unique heritage, is commemorated on the first quarter,” Barrasso said. “I believe these coins will increase awareness and promote efforts to preserve America’s national treasures for generations to come.”

If the legislation is passed, the Treasury will issue a coin commemorating a national park or site for each state, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories beginning in 2010.

“Millions of people experience the pristine wilderness and rugged beauty of areas like Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Tetons, and Devil’s Tower National Monument every year. The people of Wyoming are rightly proud of the many places that display our state’s unique heritage and natural beauty.”

 The “America’s Beautiful National Parks Quarter Dollar Coin Act of 2008,” S. 3214, is modeled after the 50 State Quarter Program. As of May of 2008, the Treasury Department received more than $3.5 billion in extra revenue based on the popularity of the 50 States Quarter Program.