2023 Coin With Lady On Back
Imagine holding a brand-new quarter, fresh from the mint, its metallic scent still lingering. The familiar profile of George Washington graces the front, stoic and enduring. But as you flip it over, a different image emerges – the strong, graceful portrait of Bessie Coleman, the first African American and Native American woman pilot, soaring against the boundless sky.
This isn't just another coin; it's a symbol. It’s a tangible representation of progress and a powerful reminder of the stories often overlooked in our nation's history. The 2023 American Women Quarters Program series, featuring Bessie Coleman and other groundbreaking women, is sparking conversations and inspiring a new generation to reach for the skies.
A New Chapter in American Currency
The American Women Quarters Program, authorized by Public Law 116-330, is a four-year initiative that began in 2022 and will continue until 2025. Each year, the U.S. Mint will issue five new quarter designs honoring women who have made significant contributions to the United States. These women represent a diverse range of fields, including science, the arts, politics, and activism.
The goal? To reflect the multifaceted story of America. This program is designed to be more inclusive and representative than ever before.
Why Bessie Coleman?
Bessie Coleman's inclusion in the program is particularly poignant. Born in 1892 in Atlanta, Texas, Coleman faced a double barrier of racial and gender discrimination. Despite these obstacles, she relentlessly pursued her dream of becoming a pilot.
After being denied entry into American flight schools because of her race and gender, she learned French and moved to France in 1920 to attend the Caudron Brothers' School of Aviation.
In 1921, she earned her pilot's license, becoming the first African American and Native American woman to do so. Coleman returned to the United States a sensation.
She became a barnstorming pilot, performing daring aerial stunts and captivating audiences with her skill and courage. Known as "Queen Bess," she used her platform to advocate for equal rights and to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background. Sadly, her life was cut short in 1926 in a tragic plane accident, but her legacy continues to inspire.
"The air is the only place free from prejudices," Bessie Coleman famously said.
The Design and Its Significance
The Bessie Coleman quarter features a dynamic depiction of the aviator. She is shown in her flight suit, head held high, with the wind whipping through her hair. The inscription "United States of America" and "Quarter Dollar" frame the image, providing a sense of national pride. A soaring image of her airplane is featured on the coin, symbolizing the freedom she sought and the heights she reached.
The design captures Coleman's determination and spirit. The artwork is intended to convey her unwavering pursuit of flight and her role as a trailblazer for women and people of color in aviation.
The reverse design was crafted by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Chris Costello and sculpted by United States Mint Medallic Artist Eric Gasch.
Beyond Bessie: Other Honorees
Bessie Coleman isn't the only remarkable woman featured in the 2023 series. The other honorees include: Edith Kanakaʻole, a Native Hawaiian kumu hula, composer, and cultural icon; Eleanor Roosevelt, former First Lady, author, and activist; Jovita Idár, a Mexican-American journalist, activist, and suffragist; and Maria Tallchief, America's first major prima ballerina.
Each of these women broke barriers and left an indelible mark on American society. They represent the diversity of experiences and contributions that have shaped the nation.
A Collector's Item and More
The American Women Quarters Program is proving to be a popular initiative among coin collectors and history enthusiasts. Many are eagerly seeking out each new release to add to their collections. The Bessie Coleman quarter, in particular, is generating significant buzz due to her inspiring story.
However, the coins are more than just collector's items. They are educational tools that can spark conversations about the roles women have played in shaping history. They serve as a reminder of the importance of representation and the power of perseverance.
Where to Find the Coins
These quarters are being released into general circulation, so you might find them in your everyday transactions. Keep an eye out for them in your change at the grocery store, coffee shop, or local market.
You can also purchase them directly from the United States Mint in various uncirculated finishes. This is a great option for collectors who want to ensure they have pristine examples of each design.
The Program's Lasting Impact
The American Women Quarters Program is more than a temporary initiative. Its lasting impact lies in its ability to elevate the stories of remarkable women and to inspire future generations.
By featuring these women on our currency, we are recognizing their contributions and ensuring that their legacies will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
This program provides a powerful message. It underscores the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our society.
As you hold a Bessie Coleman quarter in your hand, take a moment to reflect on her extraordinary journey. Remember her courage, her determination, and her unwavering belief in the power of dreams. This coin is a small but powerful reminder that anything is possible with hard work and perseverance.
