The U.S. Mint is not pleased with 20th Century Fox and The Franklin Mint’s recent joint project: collectible quarters featuring George Washington on one side and the Silver Surfer on the other.

20th Century Fox is preparing the release of its latest Marvel Comics adaptation, “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer,” a sequel to 2005’s superhero movie, “Fantastic Four.”

Part of the promotion for the upcoming film is a series of 40,000 U.S. quarters from 2005 that were altered by The Franklin Mint to include the Silver Surfer character.

On Friday, the United States Mint issued a news release expressing disapproval of the initiative and saying that the promotional quarter was illegal.

“The promotion is in no way approved, authorized, endorsed, or sponsored by the United States Mint, nor is it in any way associated or affiliated with the United States Mint,” the release said.

All 40,000 are slated to be in circulation throughout the country by the end of Memorial Day weekend. About 800 were released in each state. Fans who find them can enter a contest that features as prizes private screenings of the movie.

A Fox spokesperson said neither the studio nor The Franklin Mint intended to break any laws or “suggest that there was any approval from the U.S. Mint or the U.S. Government” for the Silver Surfer coins.

“These are commemorative coins like many the Franklin Mint creates on a regular basis for various properties,” the spokesperson said. “We were confident this coin followed the same procedures and guidelines but will certainly take any necessary steps if advised otherwise.”

The federal mint has not said whether the studio or the private Franklin Mint would face a penalty, for example, pay a fine.

“Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer,” is directed by Tim Story (who directed the first movie as well) and stars Jessica Alba, Ioan Gruffudd, Michael Chiklis, Chris Evans, Julian McMahon and Kerry Washington.

The film is slated for a June 15 release.