2023 D Bessie Coleman American Women Quarter 40-Coin Roll

Soar with a Pioneering Aviation Trailblazer

Honor the extraordinary legacy of Bessie Coleman, the first African American and first Native American woman pilot, and the first African American to earn an international pilot's license. This 40-coin roll features the first release in the 2023 American Women Quarters Program, all struck at the Denver Mint (D). Each quarter celebrates Coleman's determination to break barriers and take to the skies, where she found the freedom denied to her on the ground during an era of segregation and discrimination.

What Makes This Roll Special

• Complete 40-Coin Roll: Full roll of Denver Mint (D) quarters in original mint packaging
• First Release in 2023: Kicks off the second year of the historic American Women Quarters Program
• Circulating Quality: Authentic U.S. Mint quarters in brilliant uncirculated condition
• 6th Overall Release: Continuing the groundbreaking series celebrating women's contributions to American history
• Inspiring Reverse Design: Features Bessie Coleman suiting up for flight, her expression reflecting her determination to soar
• Aviation Pioneer: Honors the woman who overcame racism and sexism to become an international aviation sensation
• Laura Gardin Fraser Obverse: Showcases the celebrated Washington portrait originally designed for the 1932 quarter bicentennial
• Mint Roll Packaging: Wrapping may vary by mint production
• Legal Tender: Backed by the United States government

The Artistry Behind the Coin

Obverse: The obverse features Laura Gardin Fraser's elegant portrait of George Washington, originally sculpted in 1931 to commemorate Washington's 200th birthday. Though recommended for the 1932 quarter, this design was passed over by then-Treasury Secretary Mellon in favor of John Flanagan's familiar profile. Nearly a century later, Fraser's vision finally graces America's circulating coinage, offering collectors a fresh perspective on our first president with refined detail and timeless artistry.

Reverse: The reverse design presents a powerful tribute to Bessie Coleman, depicting her as she suits up in preparation for flight. Her expression captures the determination and courage that defined her groundbreaking career, reflecting her resolve to take to the skies—the only place she experienced true freedom during an era of overt racism and segregation. Born on January 26, 1892, in Atlanta, Texas, Coleman faced rejection from every U.S. flying school she approached because of her race and gender. Undeterred, she learned French and traveled to Paris in 1920 to attend the renowned Caudron Brothers' School of Aviation in Le Crotoy, France, where she was the only student of color in her class. On June 15, 1921, Coleman received her international pilot's license from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, making history. She returned to the U.S. and performed in her first airshow in September 1922, becoming famous for her daring "loop-the-loops" and figure-8 maneuvers. Coleman used her growing fame to inspire others, giving flight lessons and encouraging African Americans and women to pursue aviation. She refused to speak or perform anywhere that segregated or discriminated against African Americans, using her platform to fight for equality. Though her flying career was tragically cut short when she died on April 30, 1926, her legacy continues to inspire aviators and civil rights advocates. Inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "BESSIE COLEMAN," "QUARTER DOLLAR," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM."

Why Collectors Choose This Piece

The American Women Quarters Program represents a watershed moment in U.S. numismatics, honoring women who shaped American history across diverse fields including aviation, civil rights, and social progress. Bessie Coleman's quarter celebrates a woman who refused to let racism, sexism, or any barrier keep her grounded. Her courage and determination opened doors for future generations of African American and women aviators. This 40-coin roll offers exceptional value for collectors building complete sets, those seeking multiple coins for trading or gifting, or investors acquiring American Women Quarters in quantity. Whether you're completing the full series or honoring Coleman's inspiring legacy of breaking barriers and reaching for the sky, this roll offers both profound historical significance and accessible collecting value.

Images shown are stock photos and may not represent the exact coins you will receive. All coins are authentic U.S. Mint products.