Zitkala-Ša Quarter
- Year of Issue: 2024
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 116-330
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Background
The 2024 Zitkala-Ša Quarter is the 15th coin in the American Women Quarters™ Program. Zitkala-Ša was a writer, composer, educator, and political activist for Native American rights.
Characteristics
The obverse (heads) depicts a portrait of George Washington, originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser to mark George Washington’s 200th birthday. A recommended design for the 1932 quarter, then-Treasury Secretary Mellon ultimately selected the familiar John Flanagan design.
The reverse (tails) depicts Zitkala-Ša in traditional Yankton Sioux dress. She is holding a book, which represents her work as an author as well as her successful activism for Native American rights. Behind her, a stylized sun represents her work on The Sun Dance Opera, while a cardinal symbolizes her name, which translates to “Red Bird.” A Yankton Sioux-inspired diamond pattern sits underneath the sun.
Obverse Inscriptions
- LIBERTY
- IN GOD WE TRUST
- 2024
Reverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- E PLURIBUS UNUM
- AUTHOR
- ACTIVIST
- COMPOSER
- 25 CENTS
- ZITKALA-ŠA
Mint and Mint Mark
Specifications
| Composition | Weight | Diameter | Thickness | Edge | No. of Reeds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Cupro-Nickel
8.33% Nickel
Balance Copper
|
5.670 g |
0.955 in.
24.26 mm
|
1.75 mm | Reeded | 119 |
Artist Information
Obverse- Laura Gardin Fraser (1889-1966)
- Sculptor: Renata Gordon, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Don Everhart, Artistic Infusion Program