2022 Wilma Mankiller American Women Quarter
Coin/Bullion (Circulating Commemorative) · United States Mint, established in 1792. This specific coin was designed by Benjamin Sowards (Artistic Infusion Program) and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill (Medallic Artist).
Pattern: American Women Quarters™ Program (2022-2025 series)
Type
Coin/Bullion (Circulating Commemorative)
Maker
United States Mint, established in 1792. This specific coin was designed by Benjamin Sowards (Artistic Infusion Program) and sculpted by Phebe Hemphill (Medallic Artist).
Material
Cupro-Nickel Clad (8.33% nickel, balance copper). Note: This is not a silver coin, though proof versions were produced in .999 fine silver for collectors.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.26 mm (0.955 in); Thickness: 1.75 mm; Weight: 5.67 grams.
Description
This coin represents the third release in the American Women Quarters Program. The reverse depicts Wilma Mankiller, the first woman elected principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. She is wrapped in a traditional shawl with the wind at her back, symbolizing her leadership through adversity. The seven-pointed star represents the seven clans of the Cherokee people.
Key Features
Inclusion of Cherokee syllabary text; first time a Cherokee Chief has been depicted on a circulating US quarter; seven-pointed star motif.
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel Clad (8.33% nickel, balance copper). Note: This is not a silver coin, though proof versions were produced in .999 fine silver for collectors.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with relief engraving. Features Wilma Mankiller with a resolute gaze to the right, a seven-pointed Cherokee star, and the Cherokee Nation name written in the Cherokee syllabary.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse features 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'WILMA MANKILLER', 'PRINCIPAL CHIEF', the Cherokee syllabary 'CWYꭒꮄ ꭲꮙꮒ', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'QUARTER DOLLAR'. Designer/sculptor initials 'BS' and 'PH' are present.
Construction Details
Produced via high-speed industrial die-striking (planchet striking) at a US Mint facility (Philadelphia or Denver for circulating strikes).
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the United States; reed edges for tactile identification and to deter clipping.
Handle & Grip Details
Reeded edge (milled edge) consisting of 119 reeds for traction and security.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality striking with clear, crisp legends and distinct relief layers in the portrait and shawl textures.
Authentication Indicators
Correct typography for US Mint 2022 issues; accurate depiction of Sowards/Hemphill design; reeded edge present; standard cupro-nickel color profile.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia (no mint mark) or Denver ('D' mint mark appearing on the obverse).
Era & Period
Contemporary (21st Century); 2022 issuance reflecting modern American commemorative numismatics.
Age Estimate
Produced in 2022.
Cultural Significance
Celebrates indigenous leadership and female empowerment; marks a shift in US currency toward representing diverse historical figures rather than just presidents.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (About Uncirculated to Choice BU based on image). Visible contact marks and light surface scratches; luster appears intact. Grade: AU-58 to MS-60.
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.25). Uncirculated specimens may trade for $0.50-$2.00. Silver proof versions trade for $30-$50.
Care & Maintenance
As a common circulation coin, no special care is needed. For collectors, handle by edges to avoid skin oils; store in non-PVC flips or capsules to prevent 'green slime' or environmental toning.
Similar Pieces
2022 Maya Angelou Quarter, 2022 Sally Ride Quarter, 2022 Nina Otero-Warren Quarter, 2022 Anna May Wong Quarter.
Interesting Facts
Wilma Mankiller was a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. In her tenure, the Cherokee Nation's population tripled. This coin series is mandated by the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020.