By Nexrel We can say that coins are a reflection of history, culture and iconic figures, in addition to being a means of payment. The 2023 American Women Quarters series features a coin dedicated to a prominent woman, the first African American woman to receive an international pilot’s license.
The 2023 Bessie Coleman quarter quickly became a subject of interest to collectors and anyone who appreciates interesting finds with deep meaning. But how much is it really worth and does it have investment potential or is it just a beautiful novelty in the world of numismatics?
So, here we will discuss all about coin value, rarity, factors affecting the price, and how to properly value your specimen. Ready to begin? Then let’s go into the world of numismatics – with a coin that inspires.
Quick Overview: Coin Specifications
Before we can fully understand the Bessie Coleman Quarter’s value, let us explore its technical makeup – crucial information for collectors who want to identify or evaluate this coin accurately.
- Diameter: 24.26 mm
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Composition: Clad composition of copper-nickel (8.33% nickel, balance copper)
- Country of Issue: United States
- Designer: Chris Costello (obverse by Laura Gardin Fraser)
The coin features a bold portrait of Bessie Coleman, outfitted in her pilot gear, eyes turned toward the sky – an intentional design to reflect her ambition and historical impact. The obverse still carries the original portrait of George Washington by Laura Gardin Fraser, used throughout the series.
Coins from this issue were struck at three U.S. Mint locations:
- P for Philadelphia
- D for Denver
- S for San Francisco
Tip: Mint marks can be found just below the legend “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the obverse side. Learning to recognize them quickly can help you determine scarcity and potential value.
Here you should always remember: even the newest quarters can lose value fast if they’re damaged. Scratches, nicks, and wear significantly affect grading – always handle coins by their edges and consider protective holders for storage.
Mintage and Rarity: What Affects the Value
While all Bessie Coleman quarters share the same design, their value can differ based on where and how they were minted. Mintage numbers directly affect rarity, which is something like a key driver of a coin’s market price.
According to official U.S. Mint data:
- Philadelphia and Denver mints produced millions of circulating coins for general use.
- San Francisco struck significantly fewer coins – primarily for collectors. These are available in two premium forms:
- Uncirculated (S-mint)
- Proof versions, often with mirror-like finishes and special packaging.
S-mint coins (especially proof examples) tend to command higher premiums because they aren’t released into general circulation and are preserved in better condition from the outset.
Another major factor is the coin’s condition – graded on the Sheldon scale from 1 to 70. A coin graded MS65 (Mint State 65) or higher is considered “premium one” and can be worth several times more than a circulated counterpart.
Interesting fact: According to PCGS data, an MS65 2023 Bessie Coleman Quarter can fetch $8–$15, while a circulated version is typically worth only its face value – 25 cents – unless it features a rare error.
Market Value: What Is the Bessie Coleman Quarter Worth Today?
The question most collectors and casual finders ask is: how much is it really worth? Well,to find out its estimated price depending on condition and type, please refer to the table below.
| Coin Type | Average market value |
| Circulated (P or D mint) | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Uncirculated (P or D mint, MS65) | $5 – $15 |
| S-Mint Proof Coin | $5 – $12 (depending on finish) |
| Error Coin (e.g., die clash) | $20 – $100+ (depending on rarity) |
Proof coins, especially with a deep cameo finish, hold higher value among collectors, particularly when part of a complete proof set.
Collector hack: Many collectors find uncirculated Bessie Coleman quarters in bank rolls. Thus, you can buy quarter rolls ($10 face value) directly from banks to yield pristine coins – ideal for grading or storing long-term.
Online platforms like eBay, GreatCollections, and Heritage Auctions also have seen some MS66 quarter examples sell for as much as $30–$40, especially when graded and slabbed by NGC or PCGS.
But it’s not just about the numbers, as understanding the market trend is also important. Interest in this coin is still high because of both its cultural significance and its limited window of release. As knowledge about the coin spreads, demand may climb, especially for high-grade specimens and unique mint errors.
Is the Bessie Coleman Quarter a Good Investment?
The buzz around the Bessie Coleman Quarter isn’t just about its historical importance – many collectors guess it as a potential investment. But how do you know if a brand-new quarter can actually gain value over time?
Historical Weight with Modern Appeal
The Bessie Coleman Quarter isn’t just another addition to your change jar, it is part of a limited-run series that highlights groundbreaking American women. This context alone gives it an edge: collectors love coins with stories, and Bessie Coleman’s story soars: the first African American and Native American woman to become a licensed pilot in the early 20th century. That is the kind of cultural impact that adds weight to the coin’s legacy.
This emotional and historical appeal can boost long-term demand and means future generations of collectors may be willing to pay more for high-quality examples.
Grading Matters: Don’t Just Save – Grade Smart
If you are lucky enough to find an uncirculated Bessie Coleman Quarter (especially with a strong strike and no visible marks), consider sending it in for professional grading. Coins graded MS67 or higher by PCGS or NGC are already valued at $40–$100 in some online marketplaces. A small investment in grading today could bring a surprising return tomorrow.
And don’t overlook S-mint proofs. These are specifically made for collectors and preserved from circulation, thus these specimens are often reaching top grades like PR69DCAM (Proof 69 Deep Cameo). These proof versions already carved a niche in the market as part of collectible U.S. Mint sets.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Strategy
Right now, this coin is easy to find. But in a few years, rolls of pristine quarters will be harder to come by – and that is when values could rise. Collectors who hang on to high-grade examples and full rolls may find that patience pays off.
And here is a tip: focus on coins with standout features – striking errors, full mint luster, or exceptional eye appeal. These are the ones that gain momentum over time.
In short? While you probably won’t retire off a Bessie Coleman Quarter, the right piece – carefully stored or graded – could make a smart addition to a modern coin portfolio.
How to Check Your Coin’s Value Quickly and Accurately
So, you’ve found a Bessie Coleman Quarter and you are wondering – “Is it just pocket change, or could it be worth something more?” Whether you are holding this modern commemorative coin or any other piece you suspect might be valuable, knowing how to properly evaluate it is key to making smart decisions.
Why Details Matter: Grade and Mint Mark
Two critical factors influence a coin’s value: its condition (grade) and its mint mark. Even if you have a Bessie Coleman Quarter from 2023, a well-preserved MS65+ coin from the San Francisco Mint (marked “S”) could be worth significantly more than a circulated version from Philadelphia (marked “P”). Minor differences (like a small nick, faded luster, or wear on the high points) can drastically affect price.
To visually assess a coin’s grade, look for:
- Surface luster: A shimmering, unbroken finish usually means the coin hasn’t been circulated.
- Sharp details: Facial features, lettering, and feathers (on coins like eagles) should be crisp.
- No major scratches or dents: Even a single blemish can lower a grade.
If that sounds tricky to evaluate with the naked eye – don’t worry, you are not alone.
Your Pocket-Sized Coin Expert: Coin ID Scanner
This is where the Coin ID Scanner app becomes an essential tool. This is a pocket sized numismatist for your personal use. Whether you are holding a newly-minted quarter or a century-old penny, just open the app, point your phone’s camera at the coin, and scan.
In seconds, you’ll see:
- The coin’s name and year
- Details features
- Its estimated market value
- Rarity level and mint mark
- Possible minting errors (like off-center strikes or double dies)
Now you don’t need to flip for hours through guides or guess based on images – Coin ID Scanner gives you confidence and clarity, instantly and does all the work for you.
Tip: Even with the app’s help, always compare prices using multiple sources like eBay sold listings, PCGS, or NGC to get a complete picture before buying or selling.
Is the Bessie Coleman Quarter Worth the Hunt?
Without a doubt. The 2023 Bessie Coleman Quarter is more than a beautiful tribute – it is a collectible with real value, especially in higher grades or in proof versions. While its face value is 25 cents, its numismatic worth can go far beyond that.
This coin is a modern reminder that history, value, and opportunity can all be hiding in your spare change. And with smart tools like Coin ID Scanner, you’ll never miss a hidden jewel again.