Mint releases Bessie Coleman quarter

The United States Mint has begun shipping the new Bessie Coleman quarter, the first coin in the 2023 American Women Quarters Program.

Mint facilities in Philadelphia and Denver manufacture the quarters honoring Bessie Coleman, a pilot, advocate, and pioneer “who flew to great heights as the first African American and first Native American woman pilot, as well as the first African American to earn an international pilot’s license,” according to Mint officials.

The quarter’s reverse (tails) depicts Bessie Coleman as she suits up in preparation for flight. Her expression is reflective of her determination to take to the skies, the only place she experienced a freedom she did not have on the ground, Mint officials note.

The inscriptions are “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “QUARTER DOLLAR,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “BESSIE COLEMAN,” and “6.15.1921,” the date Coleman received her pilot’s license.

The reverse was designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Chris Costello and sculpted by United States Mint Medallic Artist Eric David Custer.

“As I researched Bessie Coleman’s life, I discovered that the existing photographs and illustrations of her were posed and very familiar,” said Costello. “I challenged myself to create an original, never-before-seen portrait that was not based on any known photo. My wife and young daughter, who are of African and Native American heritage, modeled for my drawing that depicts her in a more active posture — readying her goggles as she takes to the skies. In the background, her Curtiss Jenny biplane is seen soaring through the clouds.”

Authorized by Public Law 116-330, the American Women Quarters Program features coins with reverse (tails) designs emblematic of the accomplishments and contributions of American women, Mint officials explained. Continuing through 2025, the Mint is issuing five quarters a year.

Go to USMint.gov for information about the American Women Quarters Program.