Have you ever looked at a coin and felt it tell a story? Not just any story—but one of passion, resilience, and cultural history? That’s exactly what the 2022-P Anna May Wong American Women Quarter does. This isn’t just a coin—it’s a tribute, a milestone, and a bold move in the numismatic world.
Let’s take a deep dive into this remarkable piece of metal that has everyone buzzing.
What Is the 2022-P Anna May Wong Quarter?
The 2022-P Anna May Wong Quarter is part of the U.S. Mint’s American Women Quarters Program. It honors Anna May Wong, the first Chinese American Hollywood movie star. The “P” stands for the Philadelphia Mint, where the coin was produced.
It’s more than just pocket change—it’s a piece of history.
Quick Glance: Fast Facts
- Denomination: 25 cents (Quarter)
- Mint: Philadelphia (P)
- Honoree: Anna May Wong
- Year: 2022
- Series: American Women Quarters
- Edge: Reeded
- Obverse: George Washington
- Reverse: Anna May Wong resting her head on hand, with her name in lights
Who Was Anna May Wong?
You’ve probably heard the name, but who exactly was she?
Anna May Wong (1905–1961) was the first Chinese American film star in Hollywood. She wasn’t just an actress—she was a trailblazer, activist, and fashion icon. In an era where roles for Asian Americans were scarce and often stereotyped, Anna broke barriers like a wrecking ball through a brick wall.
Famous Films:
- The Toll of the Sea (1922)
- Shanghai Express (1932)
- Daughter of the Dragon (1931)
She spoke out against the racism in the film industry and even moved to Europe to find better roles. Talk about fearless!
The American Women Quarters Program
Let’s zoom out a bit. The Anna May Wong quarter is just one in a larger series launched in 2022.
Purpose of the Program
The American Women Quarters Program is all about honoring women who shaped America’s history, culture, and society.
Think of it as the U.S. Mint’s way of saying, “Hey, women built this country too!”
Other Honorees Include:
- Maya Angelou
- Dr. Sally Ride
- Wilma Mankiller
- Nina Otero-Warren
Each coin tells a unique story, spotlighting courage, creativity, and change.
Why the “P” Mint Mark Matters
Ever notice that tiny letter on your coin? That’s a mint mark, and it tells you where the coin was made.
- “P” = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver
- “S” = San Francisco
The 2022-P version is one of the more common varieties but still a great addition to any collection.
A Closer Look at the Design
This coin’s design is anything but basic.
Obverse (Heads Side)
Designed by Laura Gardin Fraser, it features a left-facing bust of George Washington. You might think, “Wait, isn’t that typical?” Actually, this version is different from the usual John Flanagan portrait.
Reverse (Tails Side)
Now here’s where it gets exciting.
Anna May Wong is elegantly shown resting her head on her hand, with her name lit up like a Hollywood marquee. It’s a nod to her cinema legacy, fame, and glam. The expression on her face? It’s got attitude. It’s bold. It says, “I’ve made my mark.”
Metaphor time: This quarter doesn’t whisper history—it shouts it from a rooftop!
Symbolism Galore
The imagery on the quarter isn’t random. Everything from her pose to the Hollywood lights represents her life and career.
- Pose: Reflective, confident, defiant
- Lights: Fame, perseverance, her journey through Hollywood’s golden age
- Details: A stylized nod to Chinese and Hollywood aesthetics
It’s a beautiful marriage of East and West, just like Anna herself.
Collectibility & Value: Is It Worth Anything?
You might be wondering, “Is this quarter rare? Should I keep it or spend it on coffee?”
Good news—it’s definitely collectible!
Circulation vs. Uncirculated
- In circulation: You might find it in your change.
- Uncirculated: Sold by the U.S. Mint in rolls, bags, and sets—perfect for collectors.
As of now, its face value is 25 cents, but pristine or rare versions can be worth more, especially proof or silver versions. Some sell for a few bucks online already.
Special Editions and Errors
Collectors, listen up!
While regular versions are common, error coins or special strikes (like proof coins) are hotter than a summer sidewalk.
Keep an eye out for:
- Off-center strikes
- Double dies
- Missing mint marks
These can fetch big bucks among collectors.
How to Get One
Want your own Anna May Wong quarter? Here’s how:
- Check your change
- Order directly from the U.S. Mint
- Purchase on eBay, Etsy, or coin collecting websites
- Join a coin club
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned collector, this quarter is a worthy addition.
Why It Matters: A Cultural Breakthrough
This quarter isn’t just about honoring a movie star—it’s a bold acknowledgment of Asian American contributions to U.S. history. In a world where representation still struggles to keep up, the 2022-P Anna May Wong quarter is a powerful symbol.
It’s a tiny coin with a massive message: Diversity belongs in our pockets, our hearts, and our history books.
The Educational Angle
Teachers, this one’s for you.
Use this coin to teach students about:
- Women’s history
- Film and media studies
- 🇺🇸 U.S. history and immigration
- Social justice and racial representation
Talk about learning in the palm of your hand!
Caring for Your Coin
Got one? Great! Now let’s keep it in mint condition.
- Handle with gloves
- Store in a coin flip or holder
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Keep away from moisture
Treat it like the treasure it is.
Public Reaction: What Are People Saying?
From coin collectors to historians, the buzz has been overwhelmingly positive.
Social media exploded with support:
- “Finally, an Asian American woman on U.S. currency!”
- “This is iconic.”
- “Need to get one ASAP!”
Representation matters, and this quarter is sparking conversations far beyond coin circles.
A Hot Collectible for 2022 and Beyond
Whether you’re into coins or not, the Anna May Wong quarter is a pop culture moment you can hold in your hand. It’s history. It’s Hollywood. It’s heritage—all rolled into one shiny 25-cent piece.
And let’s be real—how often do coins go viral?
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! The 2022-P Anna May Wong American Women Quarter isn’t just another addition to your coin jar—it’s a tribute to a woman who refused to be silenced and blazed a trail for generations.
It’s a story of resilience, representation, and a bit of sparkle—all captured in metal.
So next time you get change, take a second look. You might just be holding a piece of American history.
FAQs About the 2022-P Anna May Wong Quarter
1. Is the Anna May Wong quarter still in circulation?
Yes, it was released into general circulation in late 2022. You can still find it in your change today—if you’re lucky!
2. What makes the “P” mint mark different?
The “P” means it was minted in Philadelphia. While not the rarest, it’s still collectible and part of the official series.
3. Are there silver versions of this coin?
Yes! The U.S. Mint released silver proof versions as part of special collector’s sets. These are more valuable and beautifully detailed.
4. How can I tell if my coin is valuable?
Check for mint errors, uncirculated condition, or proof versions. Those usually carry more value than everyday change.
5. Why was Anna May Wong chosen for this program?
Anna was selected for her groundbreaking contributions to cinema and her role as a pioneer for Asian American representation. She broke barriers that many thought were unbreakable.
Want to know more about the rest of the American Women Quarters series? Stick around—I’ve got more coin stories coming your way!