2023 P & D Bessie Coleman Quarter Pair Brilliant Uncirculated

Product Description

These new quarters honor Bessie Coleman, the first African American to earn an international pilot's license and the first African American and first Native American woman pilot.

Coleman, born during a time of overt racism and segregation, was refused admission into U.S. flying schools. Instead she learned French and traveled to Paris in 1920 to attend the well-known Caudron Brothers' School of Aviation. She was the only student of color in her class. After receiving her international pilot's license she returned to the U.S. and became known for loop-the-loops and figure eights.

Using her growing fame to tour the country, give flight lessons and perform in shows she encouraged many others to learn to fly. Coleman always refused to speak or perform anywhere that segregated or discriminated against African Americans.

Bessie Coleman died in 1926 as a passenger in a practice flight. Although her flying career was brief her legacy continues to inspires many women and African Americans. The coin's obverse features an updated bust of George Washington. Philadelphia and Denver pair in Brilliant Uncirculated quality.