The 2022-P Dr. Sally Ride American Women Quarter stands as a significant tribute to a pioneering astronaut and physicist, Dr. Sally Ride—the first American woman to journey into space. This coin is the second release in the U.S. Mint’s American Women Quarters Program, which commenced in 2022 to honor influential women who have made substantial contributions to the nation.
Overview of the American Women Quarters Program
Initiated in 2022, the American Women Quarters Program is a four-year initiative by the United States Mint to celebrate the accomplishments of notable American women. Each year, the program features five different designs, each depicting a distinguished woman who has significantly impacted various fields such as civil rights, government, science, and the arts. The program is set to run until 2025, culminating in a total of 20 unique designs.
Dr. Sally Ride: A Trailblazer in Space Exploration
Dr. Sally Ride was born on May 26, 1951, in Los Angeles, California. She earned her bachelor’s degrees in physics and English from Stanford University, where she also obtained her master’s and Ph.D. in physics.
In 1978, Ride was selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA, and on June 18, 1983, she made history as the first American woman in space during the STS-7 mission aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger.
Beyond her spaceflights, Ride was a dedicated advocate for science education, co-founding Sally Ride Science to inspire young people, especially girls, to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Design Details of the 2022-P Sally Ride Quarter
The 2022-P Dr. Sally Ride Quarter features distinct designs on both its obverse and reverse sides:
- Obverse (Front): This side showcases a portrait of George Washington, originally sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser. Fraser’s design was recommended by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) and the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) in 1931 to mark Washington’s 200th birthday but was not used until this series. The portrait presents Washington facing right, offering a fresh perspective compared to previous quarter designs.
- Reverse (Back): The reverse side honors Dr. Sally Ride. The design depicts Ride next to a window on the space shuttle, symbolizing her view back toward Earth during her historic mission. This imagery reflects her dedication to space exploration and her perspective as an astronaut.
Specifications and Mintage
The table below provides detailed specifications for the 2022-P Dr. Sally Ride Quarter:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Quarter ($0.25) |
| Composition | 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel |
| Weight | 5.67 grams |
| Diameter | 24.26 mm |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint Mark | ‘P’ (Philadelphia Mint) |
| Mintage | Approximately 275,200,000 coins produced at the Philadelphia Mint USA Coin Book |
Collectibility and Value
As of December 2024, the 2022-P Dr. Sally Ride Quarter holds both numismatic and educational value. In uncirculated (mint state) condition, individual coins are valued between $0.59 and $1.20, depending on their grade and condition
USA Coin Book. Coins with higher grades, such as MS-65 or above, may command higher prices among collectors. Additionally, special editions, such as proof sets or coins with unique finishes, may hold higher value.
Where to Find the 2022-P Sally Ride Quarter
These quarters were released into general circulation and can be found through regular transactions. For collectors seeking uncirculated or higher-grade specimens, options include purchasing from coin dealers, online marketplaces, or directly from the U.S. Mint, which offers rolls, bags, and special collector sets.
Significance of the Coin
The 2022-P Dr. Sally Ride Quarter serves as a tribute to a pioneering figure in American history, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in science and space exploration. It also represents a broader initiative to recognize the diverse contributions of women throughout American history, promoting a more inclusive representation in numismatics.
The 2022-P Dr. Sally Ride American Women Quarter is a meaningful addition to the U.S. Mint’s commemorative coin series, honoring a trailblazer in space exploration and serving as an inspiration for future generations. Collectors and the general public alike can appreciate the coin’s design, historical significance, and the broader context of the American Women Quarters Program.
FAQs
Who was Dr. Sally Ride?
Dr. Sally Ride was the first American woman to travel into space, achieving this milestone in 1983 aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. She was also a physicist and a strong advocate for science education.
What is the American Women Quarters Program?
It is a four-year initiative by the U.S. Mint, running from 2022 to 2025, that honors notable American women by featuring them on the reverse side of quarters.
How can I obtain a 2022-P Sally Ride Quarter?
These quarters were released into general circulation, so you might find them in everyday transactions. For uncirculated or collector-grade coins, consider purchasing from coin dealers, online marketplaces, or the U.S. Mint.
