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Jovita Idar Quarter: Value and Historical Significance Explained

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Jovita Idar Quarter: Value and Historical Significance Explained

In 2023, the United States Mint released a special quarter honoring Jovita Idar, a pioneering Mexican American journalist, teacher, and civil rights activist.

This coin not only celebrates her invaluable contributions to society but also offers collectors a unique piece of history.

In this article, we’ll delve into the design and value of the Jovita Idar quarter and explore the profound impact of Idar’s legacy.

Design and Features of the Jovita Idar Quarter

The Jovita Idar quarter is part of the American Women Quarters Program, which honors trailblazing women who have made significant contributions to the United States. The coin’s design is rich with symbolism that reflects Idar’s life and work.

  • Obverse (Front): Features a portrait of George Washington, originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser to mark Washington’s 200th birthday.
  • Reverse (Back): Depicts Jovita Idar standing with her hands clasped. Within her figure are inscriptions representing her accomplishments and the newspapers for which she wrote, including “MEXICAN AMERICAN RIGHTS,” “TEACHER,” “NURSE,” “JOURNALIST,” and names of organizations she was associated with.

Current Value and Collectibility

As of January 2025, the Jovita Idar quarter holds both monetary and historical value. While its face value is 25 cents, its worth to collectors can vary based on factors such as condition, mint mark, and rarity.

GradeDescriptionEstimated Value (USD)
CirculatedStandard wear from general use$0.25
Uncirculated (MS60-MS65)No signs of wear; may have minor imperfections$0.60 – $1.22
Mint State 67 (MS67)Above average strike with minimal marksApproximately $60
Mint State 68 (MS68)Superior quality with very few imperfectionsApproximately $645

Note: Values are approximate and can fluctuate based on market demand and availability.

Coins minted in San Francisco (bearing the “S” mint mark) are produced in smaller quantities, making them rarer and potentially more valuable to collectors.

Jovita Idar: A Legacy of Advocacy and Education

Born on September 7, 1885, in Laredo, Texas, Jovita Idar was one of eight children in a family deeply committed to civil rights and social justice. Her father, Nicasio Idar, was the editor of the Spanish-language newspaper La Crónica, which highlighted issues faced by Mexican Americans.

After earning her teaching certificate in 1903, Idar began teaching at a school for Mexican American students. She was disheartened by the poor conditions and lack of resources, which led her to believe that journalism might be a more effective avenue for enacting change.

Idar’s contributions include:

  • Journalism: She wrote for La Crónica, addressing topics such as racism, school segregation, and women’s rights.
  • Activism: In 1911, she became the first president of the League of Mexican Women (La Liga Femenil Mexicanista), focusing on providing education to underprivileged children.
  • Healthcare: During the Mexican Revolution, Idar served as a nurse, providing care to wounded soldiers.
  • Civil Rights: She stood against the Texas Rangers to protect the press’s freedom when they attempted to shut down El Progreso, a newspaper she was associated with.

Idar’s unwavering commitment to justice and equality left an indelible mark on American history, making her a fitting figure to be honored on the 2023 quarter.

Collecting the Jovita Idar Quarter

For those interested in numismatics, the Jovita Idar quarter represents both a piece of art and a tangible connection to a pivotal figure in civil rights history. When collecting, consider the following:

  • Condition: Coins in mint or uncirculated condition are more valuable.
  • Mint Marks: Quarters minted in San Francisco (“S” mint mark) are rarer.
  • Errors: Some coins may have minting errors, which can increase their value.

It’s advisable to consult reputable coin dealers or grading services to assess a coin’s value accurately.

The 2023 Jovita Idar quarter serves as a tribute to a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to advocacy, education, and civil rights. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to numismatics, this coin offers both historical significance and potential value. By understanding its background and what to look for, you can appreciate the depth of its worth beyond mere currency.

FAQs

Who was Jovita Idar?

Jovita Idar was a Mexican American journalist, teacher, and activist born in 1885 in Laredo, Texas. She is renowned for her work in civil rights, women’s rights, and education.

What is the significance of the Jovita Idar quarter?

Released in 2023 as part of the American Women Quarters Program, this coin honors Idar’s contributions to journalism, civil rights, and education.

How can I determine the value of my Jovita Idar quarter?

The value depends on factors like condition, mint mark, and rarity. Consulting with reputable coin dealers or grading services can provide an accurate assessment.

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