The 2022 Wilma Mankiller Quarter is part of the U.S. Mint’s American Women Quarters Program, which honors influential women who made a significant impact on American history. This unique coin celebrates Wilma Mankiller, the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, known for her contributions to Native American rights and her dedication to the Cherokee community. This article explores the background of Wilma Mankiller, the coin’s design, its collectible value, and details on where and how to find it.
Overview of the American Women Quarters Program
The American Women Quarters Program began in 2022 to honor notable American women from different fields and backgrounds. Each year through 2025, the program highlights five women whose achievements have shaped the nation. Congress authorized this series to celebrate women in civil rights, science, government, and the arts, creating a unique collectible series for enthusiasts and history lovers.
The 2022 series includes Maya Angelou, Sally Ride, Wilma Mankiller, Nina Otero-Warren, and Anna May Wong. Each coin is designed to reflect the honoree’s legacy and contributions.
Wilma Mankiller: A Pioneer for Cherokee Nation
Wilma Mankiller, born on November 18, 1945, in Oklahoma, made history as the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. She was a strong advocate for Native American rights and worked to improve healthcare, education, and economic opportunities within her community. After facing economic hardships and family relocation to California, Mankiller became active in the civil rights movement. Her legacy as a leader and activist continues to inspire, and she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998.
Design and Specifications of the Wilma Mankiller Quarter
The Wilma Mankiller Quarter features unique design elements that honor her heritage and contributions. Here’s a closer look at the coin’s specifications and design details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Obverse (Front) | Features a profile of George Washington designed by Laura Gardin Fraser in 1931, showing Washington facing right. |
| Reverse (Back) | Portrait of Wilma Mankiller from the waist up, facing right. Design includes the seven-pointed Cherokee Nation star and her title in Cherokee text. |
| Designers | Obverse by Laura Gardin Fraser, reverse designed by Benjamin Sowards and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill. |
| Mint Locations | Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) |
| Material | Copper-nickel alloy (outer layer .750 copper, .250 nickel bonded to a pure copper core) |
| Diameter | 24.3 mm |
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
| Edge | Reeded |
Availability and Collectibility of the Wilma Mankiller Quarter
The 2022 Wilma Mankiller Quarter was minted at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Quarters from Philadelphia and Denver were released into circulation, while San Francisco strikes were produced for collectors. Here’s a breakdown of its availability and current market trends:
| Mint Location | Release Type | Market Availability | Approximate Value (November 2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia (P) | Circulated | Widely available in circulation | Around $5 on collector sites |
| Denver (D) | Circulated | Widely available in circulation | Around $5 on collector sites |
| San Francisco (S) | Numismatic (Collector) | Sold online through U.S. Mint | Higher, varies by condition |
These coins are considered affordable for new collectors, with variations and error coins, such as the “die cud in hair” and “Drooling Washington,” fetching higher prices.
Designers Behind the Wilma Mankiller Quarter
The Wilma Mankiller Quarter showcases the artistry of several notable designers:
- Laura Gardin Fraser: The obverse side of the coin features a Washington portrait designed by Fraser in 1931, selected for the American Women Quarters Program for its classic appeal.
- Benjamin Sowards and Phebe Hemphill: Sowards designed the reverse, with a portrait of Mankiller against a backdrop of her tribal land, while Hemphill sculpted the coin’s intricate details.
Summary of Coin Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Year of Issue | 2022 |
| Denomination | Quarter Dollar (25 Cents) |
| Mintage | 310,000,000 |
| Quality | Business Strike |
| Designer Obverse | Laura Gardin Fraser |
| Designer Reverse | Benjamin Sowards (Design), Phebe Hemphill (Sculpt) |
Conclusion
The 2022 Wilma Mankiller quarter is a tribute to a pioneering leader and advocate for Native American rights. As part of the American Women Quarters Program, it celebrates Wilma Mankiller’s contributions to the Cherokee Nation and serves as a collectible that combines art, history, and culture. For collectors, it’s a valuable addition that honors a trailblazer whose legacy continues to inspire new generations.
FAQ’s
Who was Wilma Mankiller, and why is she featured on the 2022 quarter?
Wilma Mankiller was the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, recognized for her contributions to Native American rights. She is featured on the 2022 quarter as part of the American Women Quarters Program.
Where can I find the 2022 Wilma Mankiller quarter?
The Wilma Mankiller quarter is available in circulation from Philadelphia and Denver mints and as a collectible from the San Francisco Mint. You can also find it through collector websites.
What is special about the design of the Wilma Mankiller quarter?
The design features Wilma Mankiller’s portrait, a seven-pointed Cherokee star, and Cherokee language text, making it a unique tribute to her heritage and leadership.