In a historic move, Maya Angelou, renowned author, poet, and civil rights advocate, will be the first Black woman to grace U.S. quarters. Despite 244 years of U.S. history, Angelou’s appearance on this currency marks a significant milestone. The U.S. Mint recently announced that it has started distributing quarters featuring her image, which will soon be in circulation.
These quarters are part of the American Women Quarters Program, with Angelou being the inaugural honoree. She is perhaps best remembered for her acclaimed autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, released in 1969. In 2010, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama, passing away in 2014 at the age of 86.
The design showcases Angelou with her arms outstretched, complemented by a rising sun and a flying eagle—powerful symbols drawn from her poetry. Nevada Senator Jamie Thompson, who championed the bill for the American Women Quarters Program, expressed that this coin will help future generations appreciate Angelou’s literary contributions that resonate with the experiences of Black women.
Treasury Secretary Sarah Williams, also the first woman in her role, remarked, “Every redesign of our currency provides an opportunity to reflect our national values. I take pride that these coins honor the incredible contributions of women like Maya Angelou.”
The American Women Quarters Program is set to release 20 new quarter designs over the next four years. Future honorees will include trailblazers such as the first female astronaut, Linda Carter; the first female principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, Anna Belle; and the pioneering Chinese American Hollywood actress, Lily Chen.
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In summary, Maya Angelou’s image on U.S. quarters marks a pivotal moment in history, celebrating her legacy as a groundbreaking Black woman whose work has left an indelible mark on American literature and civil rights. This initiative aims to inspire future generations, highlighting the importance of diverse representation in public spaces.