Queen Isabella Quarter Dollar
Commemorative Coin Programs
- Year of Issue: 1893
Background
Released in 1893, the Queen Isabella Quarter was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman, Queen Isabella of Spain. The coin was made for the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago at the request of the exposition’s Board of Lady Managers and with approval from Congress.
The World’s Columbian Exposition celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the Americas in 1492. The 1892 World’s Columbian Exposition Half Dollar featured Columbus. The 1893 quarter featured Queen Isabella because of her role in providing aid to the journey.
Characteristics
The obverse design features Queen Isabella of Spain.
The reverse features a kneeling female with symbols of women’s industry (distaff and spindle).
Obverse Inscriptions
- UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
- 1893
Reverse Inscriptions
- BOARD OF LADY MANAGERS
- COLUMBIAN QUAR. DOL.
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
- Charles E. Barber