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The American Women Quarters Program, launched by the U.S. Mint in 2022, celebrates the achievements of influential women in American history. One of the honorees for 2024 is Zitkala-Ša, also known as Gertrude Simmons Bonnin, a writer, musician, and activist from the Yankton Dakota Sioux tribe. Through her work, she championed Native American rights and cultural preservation, making her a deserving figure to be commemorated on U.S. currency.
The Zitkala-Ša Quarter holds historical and cultural significance, making it an attractive addition for collectors. However, while collectible quarters like this have historical appeal, they differ significantly from investment-grade coins, which hold intrinsic metal value and long-term financial benefits.
If you're considering purchasing coins, it's essential to understand the differences between commemorative coins and investment-grade coins and why the latter might be a better choice for wealth preservation.
The Broader Impact of the American Women Quarters Program
The American Women Quarters Program is more than just a coin series—it represents a historical shift in how the U.S. Mint commemorates important figures in American history. For decades, U.S. currency has been dominated by images of presidents and founding fathers, but this program highlights the contributions of women who shaped the nation in diverse ways.
Since its launch in 2022, the program has featured notable women from fields such as literature, science, civil rights, and government. Past honorees include Maya Angelou, the celebrated poet and activist; Sally Ride, the first American woman in space; and Dr. Anna May Wong, a pioneering Chinese American actress. Each coin serves as a lasting tribute to these women’s legacies, educating the public and inspiring future generations.
Zitkala-Ša’s inclusion in the program is particularly significant because it brings greater recognition to Native American heritage and activism, ensuring that a wider audience learns about her work. The release of her quarter contributes to a larger cultural shift toward acknowledging indigenous voices in American history.
The American Women Quarters Program
The American Women Quarters Program is a four-year initiative by the U.S. Mint running from 2022 to 2025. Each year, five women are honored on the reverse side of U.S. quarters. Zitkala-Ša was chosen for 2024 due to her profound influence on Native American rights and advocacy.
Who Was Zitkala-Ša?
Zitkala-Ša, born Gertrude Simmons Bonnin in 1876, was a fierce advocate for Native American rights, a talented writer, and a groundbreaking musician. Her journey was shaped by both her Native American heritage and the challenges of assimilation policies enforced by the U.S. government.
As a young girl, Zitkala-Ša was sent to a boarding school for Native American children, where she was forced to cut her hair, wear Western clothing, and abandon her Dakota language. Despite the trauma of this experience, she excelled in her studies and became one of the first Native American women to receive a formal Western education.
Later in life, she used her writing to expose the injustices faced by indigenous people. She published essays detailing the cultural destruction caused by forced assimilation and worked tirelessly to protect Native American land and citizenship rights. In 1926, she co-founded the National Council of American Indians, which played a vital role in advocating for the Indian Citizenship Act and policy changes that improved the lives of Native Americans.
Her musical contributions were just as significant. She co-composed “The Sun Dance Opera,” a groundbreaking piece that blended Native American musical traditions with European classical styles. This opera remains one of the first major works to incorporate indigenous themes into Western music.
Zitkala-Ša’s impact continues to be felt today, as scholars, activists, and educators recognize her role in preserving Native American culture and fighting for indigenous rights.
Design and Symbolism of the Zitkala-Ša Quarter
The Zitkala-Ša Quarter features intricate designs that reflect her cultural identity and contributions.
Obverse Side: Classic Washington Portrait
The obverse side features George Washington, a design originally created by Laura Gardin Fraser in 1932.
Reverse Side: Zitkala-Ša in Traditional Dress
The reverse side portrays Zitkala-Ša in traditional Yankton Sioux attire, holding a book, symbolizing her literary work. The background includes a stylized sun representing her opera, a cardinal reflecting her Dakota name ("Red Bird"), and a diamond pattern inspired by Yankton Sioux art.
These elements enhance the historical and artistic value of the coin, making it a desirable piece for collectors.
How Much is the Zitkala-Ša Quarter Worth?
Factors Affecting Value
The value of the Zitkala-Ša Quarter depends on several factors:
Condition – Uncirculated quarters are worth more than circulated ones.
Rarity & Demand – Limited mintage and collector interest can drive up value.
Market Trends – Prices fluctuate based on collector demand and historical significance.
Estimated Market Value
Circulated quarters: Typically worth face value (25 cents).
Uncirculated/Mint Condition: Can range from $0.60 to $1.22, depending on grading and rarity.
Specialized Versions: May carry higher premiums, potentially ranging from $10 to $50.
Commemorative Coins vs. Investment-Grade Coins
While commemorative quarters like the Zitkala-Ša Quarter have historical and sentimental value, they are not strong investment pieces. Investors looking to preserve and grow their wealth often turn to investment-grade gold and silver coins. Here's why:
Material Composition – Quarters are primarily copper-nickel clad, meaning they hold little to no intrinsic metal value.
Market Demand – Commemorative coins appeal mainly to historical collectors, not investors looking for wealth protection.
Intrinsic Value – Investment-grade gold and silver coins derive value from their precious metal content and scarcity.
For those looking to build wealth through precious metals, coins such as the 2024 Gold Australian Kangaroo 4 Coin Set (NGC PF70) with Box or the 2024 Gold American Eagle Proof 70 Set offer a tangible hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.
Why Invest in Gold Coins Instead?
- Gold retains value over time, unlike circulating currency.
- Certified investment coins (e.g., NGC PF70-rated coins) ensure purity and quality.
- Hedge Against Inflation – Precious metals often rise in value as the purchasing power of the dollar declines.
- Safe Haven Asset – During economic uncertainty, gold and silver prices tend to increase.
- Diversification – Adding metals to an investment portfolio reduces risk and enhances stability.
Investors looking for secure options should explore offerings from the U.S. Gold Bureau, which provides investment-grade gold coins with expert guidance.
Why Choose the U.S. Gold Bureau?
The U.S. Gold Bureau offers a trusted platform for acquiring authentic, high-quality precious metals, backed by expert guidance and secure storage options. With a commitment to transparency, competitive pricing, and industry-leading certification, the U.S. Gold Bureau ensures that every investor has the tools they need to build and protect their financial future. Start your journey today and explore how gold and silver can strengthen your portfolio for generations to come.
To explore investment-worthy gold and silver coins, contact the U.S. Gold Bureau today. We offer a range of premium bullion and certified coins, helping investors preserve wealth with real assets. Get our Free Investors Guide or call the U.S. Gold Bureau to explore investment opportunities.
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byUnited States Gold Bureau