Maya Angelou Becomes 1st Black Woman Featured on U.S. Quarter

 

As new coins enter circulation, some will notice that the new quarters feature the late African American writer, poet, and activist Maya Angelou. The U.S. Mint announced the new coins on Monday in commemoration of Angelou and her "contributions to American history." 

“It is my honor to present our Nation’s first circulating coins dedicated to celebrating American women and their contributions to American history,” said Deputy Director of the U.S. Mint Ventris C. Gibson. “Each 2022 quarter is designed to reflect the breadth and depth of accomplishments being celebrated throughout this historic coin program. Maya Angelou, featured on the reverse of this first coin in the series, used words to inspire and uplift.”