Overview of the Quarter
The quarter, formally known as the quarter dollar, is a denomination of currency in the United States valued at 25 cents. It represents one-quarter of a dollar and has a rich history dating back to its first minting in 1796. The quarter has undergone various design changes and is currently part of the American Women Quarters Program, which honors the contributions of women in American history.
Physical Characteristics
- Value: 0.25 U.S. Dollar
- Mass: 5.67 grams (0.2 oz)
- Diameter: 24.26 mm (0.955 in)
- Thickness: 1.75 mm (0.069 in)
- Edge: 119 reeds
- Composition:
- From 1965: 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel
- 1932–1964: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Design Features
The quarter has featured various designs throughout its history. The most notable design is the Washington quarter, which has George Washington’s portrait on the obverse (heads) side. The reverse (tails) side has seen numerous designs, especially with the introduction of programs like the 50 State Quarters and the America the Beautiful Quarters.
Obverse and Reverse Designs
The obverse (front) of the quarter typically features a profile of George Washington, the first President of the United States. This design was first introduced in 1932 and has remained largely unchanged since. The reverse (back) of the quarter has undergone numerous changes, particularly since 1999, when the U.S. Mint began the 50 State Quarters Program. This program featured designs representing each of the 50 states, showcasing various symbols and landmarks.In recent years, the U.S. Mint has introduced the American Women Quarters™ Program, which honors influential women in American history. Each year, five new designs are released, featuring notable figures such as Maya Angelou, Sally Ride, and Wilma Mankiller.
Current Design (American Women Quarters Program)
- Obverse: Portrait of George Washington
- Reverse: Features designs honoring American women from diverse backgrounds and fields.
Historical Context
The quarter has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially minted in silver, the composition changed in 1965 due to rising silver prices. The quarter has also been a medium for various commemorative designs, including the Bicentennial quarter in 1976 and the ongoing American Women Quarters Program, which started in 2022 and will continue until 2025.
Notable Designs
Throughout its history, the quarter has featured various designs, including:
- Draped Bust Quarter (1796-1807): Featured Lady Liberty.
- Capped Bust Quarter (1815-1838): A new design with Liberty’s bust.
- Seated Liberty Quarter (1838-1891): Depicted Liberty seated.
- Barber Quarter (1892-1916): Featured a new design by Charles E. Barber.
- Standing Liberty Quarter (1916-1930): Showed Liberty stepping through a wall.
- Washington Quarter (1932-present): The current design featuring George Washington.
Recent Developments
In 2022, the U.S. Mint launched the American Women Quarters™ Program, which will run until 2025. This program aims to celebrate the contributions of women throughout American history through the quarter’s reverse designs.
Significance of the Quarter
The quarter plays a vital role in American commerce, serving as a common denomination in everyday transactions. Its design reflects American heritage and values, making it not just a currency but also a symbol of national identity.
Table of Quarter Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Value | 0.25 U.S. Dollar |
| Mass | 5.67 grams |
| Diameter | 24.26 mm |
| Thickness | 1.75 mm |
| Edge | 119 reeds |
| Composition | 91.67% Cu, 8.33% Ni (current) |
| Historical Composition | 90% Ag, 10% Cu (1932–1964) |
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Wikipedia page on the quarter.
FAQ Section
What does a quarter look like?
A quarter has a circular shape with a diameter of 24.26 mm and features a portrait of George Washington on the front. The back has various designs depending on the minting year and program.
How much is a quarter worth?
A quarter is worth 25 cents, which is one-quarter of a dollar.
When was the first quarter minted?
The first quarter was minted in 1796.
What are the different designs of the quarter?
The quarter has had several designs, including the Draped Bust, Seated Liberty, Barber, Standing Liberty, and the current Washington quarter. The reverse has featured various designs, especially in the recent American Women Quarters Program.
Why did the quarter change its composition?
The composition of the quarter changed in 1965 due to rising silver prices, transitioning from a silver coin to a copper-nickel clad coin.
What is the American Women Quarters Program?
The American Women Quarters Program is a series of quarters issued from 2022 to 2025 that honors the contributions of women in various fields throughout American history.
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