In 2022, the U.S. Mint launched an exciting new series honoring trailblazing American women who made significant contributions in fields such as civil rights, science, the arts, and government. The American Women Quarters Program features five different reverse designs each year from 2022 through 2025.
The first honoree in this groundbreaking series is writer, poet, performer and social activist Maya Angelou. As the first African American woman featured on a U.S. quarter, she is an inspiring choice to lead this important program.
With a powerful design and limited mintages across three mints, the 2022 Maya Angelou quarters are poised to be collectible keys for years to come. But what are the most valuable examples and varieties to look for? Read on to discover the top Maya Angelou quarters worth money.
Symbolism of the 2022 Maya Angelou Quarter Design
The Maya Angelou quarter reverse, designed by Emily Damstra and sculpted by Craig A. Campbell, features an inspiring portrait of the legendary writer with her arms uplifted. Behind her, a bird in flight and rising sun symbolize the way her poetry and teachings encouraged people to rise above adversity.
This design is inscribed with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "MAYA ANGELOU," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "QUARTER DOLLAR." The obverse continues to feature the familiar restored 1932 portrait of George Washington by John Flanagan.
Most Valuable 2022 Maya Angelou Quarters by Mint and Variety
With a copper-nickel clad composition across all circulating issues, it‘s the mint mark, finish, and strike type that determines much of a 2022 Maya Angelou quarter‘s value.
Philadelphia (P) Mint
The Philadelphia Mint struck Maya Angelou quarters in the highest numbers, with a total mintage of 304,800,000 pieces. This large mintage means circulated examples are still only worth face value of $0.25 in most cases. Even uncirculated examples can often be found for less than $1.
However, coins certified in near-perfect mint state can bring much higher prices due to quality and grade rarity. A 2022-P MS68 Maya Angelou quarter sold for $2,880 in a June 2022 GreatCollections auction, while an MS67+ stunner brought $504.
Denver (D) Mint
The Denver Mint produced a slightly lower mintage of 279,200,000 Maya Angelou quarters for circulation. Values for Denver issues are comparable to P-mint quarters in most grades. However, the top population grade of MS68 makes the Denver example marginally scarcer.
In April 2023, a 2022-D Maya Angelou quarter graded PCGS MS68 sold for $3,120 through GreatCollections – a touch higher than the Philadelphia equivalent. The auction record for the issue stands at $5,040 for a sole PCGS MS68+.
San Francisco (S) Mint
San Francisco produced quarters in both circulating (212,100) and various proof (712,000 clad; 308,864 silver) finishes. The much lower circulating mintage compared to P and D means any 2022-S business strike quarter is more valuable right out of the gate.
In gem uncirculated condition, even an ungraded 2022-S Maya Angelou quarter can fetch $30-50. The MS68 grade is unsurprisingly king here too, with recent auction prices of $600-2,000 for top-tier examples.
Clad and silver proof 2022-S Maya Angelou quarters are a slightly different market since they were struck specifically for collectors. Values typically range from $5-30 for raw coins. However, pieces certified in perfect PR70DCAM condition can command $300-600.
Errors and Varieties Add to 2022 Quarter Value
As the first coin issued in a major new series, the 2022 Maya Angelou quarter was closely scrutinized for any oddities. Several notable errors and varieties have emerged, adding further interest for collectors:
1. "Wart on Nose" or "Cold Sore" Variety – An area of raised metal appears on Washington‘s nose due to a die chip. Prices up to $100 in MS67.
2. "Drooling Chin" or "Drooling George" Variety – A prominent die gouge hangs off Washington‘s chin, resembling a drool. Prices up to $200 in MS67.
3. "Nesting Bird Twig" Variety – One of the scarcest types, a tiny twig-shaped die crack appears to sit in the beak of the flying bird. Prices up to $500 in MS66.
4. Off-Center Strikes & Planchet Errors – Striking and planchet errors are hotly pursued. A 10% off-center 2022-P quarter sold for $565 in March 2023.
Finding Valuable 2022 Maya Angelou Quarters
With relatively high circulating mintages, the odds are decent that you‘ll find Maya Angelou quarters in your pocket change or at your local bank. Inspect your coins for the known varieties and any signs of errors to cherrypick hidden gems.
Uncirculated rolls and bags from the Mint are another good source for high-grade examples. Be on the lookout for 2022-S quarters that escaped into circulation, as they‘ll bring a hefty premium. Don‘t forget to check any proof sets for top-quality pieces too.
Tips for Selling Maya Angelou Quarters
If you‘re lucky enough to find a valuable Maya Angelou quarter, consider these tips when selling:
Have rare varieties and errors attributed by a respected third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC. Certified coins will bring higher prices.
Be patient in seeking the best price. These modern coins may take time to find the right buyer. Consider multiple offers and venues.
Consign exceptional pieces to major auction houses that specialize in modern coins like GreatCollections or Heritage Auctions for maximum exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 2022 Maya Angelou quarter silver?
A: Only proof coins with the S mint mark were struck in 99.9% silver. All circulating quarters are clad.
Q: Are 2022 Maya Angelou quarters rare?
A: In circulated condition, they are very common. However, near-perfect and error examples are rare and highly sought-after.
Q: Will Maya Angelou quarters increase in value?
A: As more collectors seek to complete this landmark series, key dates and varieties like the 2022 issues should see steady demand and price appreciation over time.
Q: How much is a 2022 quarter worth?
A: Circulated examples are worth face value of $0.25. Uncirculated pieces range from $1-5,000+ based on mint mark and grade.
A Poetic Legacy in Pocket Change
The Maya Angelou quarter is a small but mighty tribute to one of America‘s most revered voices. By understanding which issues, varieties, and grades are most valued, you can assemble a top-notch collection of these groundbreaking coins.
As more collectors discover the rich symbolism and history behind the American Women Quarters series, choice examples of the 2022 Maya Angelou issue should remain cherished and coveted. With this guide in hand, you‘re ready to appreciate the artistry and importance of these quarters for years to come.
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