Anna May Wong Quarter For Sale
A tangible piece of American history, imbued with cultural significance and artistic merit, is now available to collectors. The Anna May Wong Quarter, a numismatic tribute to the trailblazing actress, is being offered for sale by various dealers and online marketplaces, sparking renewed interest in her legacy and the ongoing efforts to diversify representation in American currency.
This quarter is more than just pocket change; it’s a symbol of recognition for Anna May Wong, the first Chinese American film star in Hollywood. The sale provides collectors and the public a chance to own a piece of her story, while igniting conversations about diversity, representation, and the evolving narrative of American identity.
The Significance of the Anna May Wong Quarter
The Anna May Wong Quarter is part of the United States Mint’s American Women Quarters Program. This initiative celebrates the accomplishments and contributions of prominent American women. Each year, from 2022 to 2025, the Mint releases five new quarter designs, each honoring a different woman who has made a significant impact on American history.
Anna May Wong was selected for her groundbreaking career in film and her tireless advocacy for greater representation of Asian Americans in the entertainment industry. Her image on the quarter serves as a visual reminder of her struggles against racial discrimination and her persistent pursuit of artistic excellence.
The design features a close-up of Anna May Wong, her head resting on her hand, framed by the inscription "United States of America" and the motto "E Pluribus Unum." The reverse side of the quarter depicts George Washington, a standard feature of American currency.
Availability and Pricing
The Anna May Wong Quarter is available in various forms, including circulation strikes, proof sets, and special uncirculated coin sets. Collectors can acquire these coins through authorized U.S. Mint dealers, online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon, and some local coin shops.
Pricing varies depending on the condition, rarity, and packaging of the coin. Circulation strikes, the coins intended for everyday use, can be obtained at face value, while proof sets and uncirculated coins typically command higher prices due to their superior condition and limited availability.
According to recent listings on online marketplaces, uncirculated Anna May Wong Quarters are selling for between $5 and $20, depending on the seller and the condition of the coin. Proof sets, which are specially struck for collectors, can fetch prices ranging from $20 to $50.
Collector Interest and Market Trends
The American Women Quarters Program has generated significant interest among coin collectors and the general public. The release of each new quarter design has been met with enthusiasm, as individuals seek to acquire and preserve these commemorative coins.
The Anna May Wong Quarter, in particular, has resonated with many due to her pioneering role in Hollywood and the growing awareness of the need for greater diversity and inclusion in American society. Her image on the quarter provides a powerful symbol of progress and representation.
“We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm surrounding the American Women Quarters Program and the Anna May Wong Quarter in particular,” stated a U.S. Mint spokesperson. “This program is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements of remarkable American women and to educate the public about their contributions to our nation.”
Beyond the Coin: Anna May Wong's Enduring Legacy
The significance of the Anna May Wong Quarter extends beyond its monetary value. It serves as a catalyst for renewed interest in her life and career, prompting individuals to learn more about her struggles and triumphs.
Anna May Wong faced significant challenges throughout her career, including racial discrimination and limited opportunities for Asian American actors in Hollywood. Despite these obstacles, she persevered, starring in numerous films and becoming an international icon.
Her legacy continues to inspire aspiring actors and filmmakers of Asian descent. The presence of her image on the quarter serves as a reminder of the importance of representation and the ongoing fight for equality in the entertainment industry.
The sale of the quarter coincides with renewed efforts to preserve and celebrate Anna May Wong's contributions to film history. Film festivals, museum exhibitions, and educational programs are all helping to ensure that her story is not forgotten.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Representation in Currency
The American Women Quarters Program is part of a broader movement to diversify representation on American currency. In addition to honoring prominent women, the U.S. Mint is also exploring ways to incorporate images of people of color and individuals from other underrepresented groups onto future coins and banknotes.
These efforts reflect a growing awareness of the need for greater inclusivity and a desire to tell a more complete and accurate story of American history. The presence of Anna May Wong's image on the quarter is a significant step in this direction.
The availability of the Anna May Wong Quarter is a testament to her enduring legacy and the ongoing efforts to promote diversity and representation in American culture. As collectors acquire these coins, they are not only preserving a piece of history, but also contributing to a larger conversation about the evolving narrative of American identity.
