A Personal Encounter with History
Let me take you back to a crisp autumn morning in my modest home office, surrounded by decades of numismatic treasures. My hands gently cradle the 2022 Dr. Sally Ride Quarter, and I‘m immediately transported to a moment that changed human history forever.
The Woman Behind the Coin
Dr. Sally Ride wasn‘t just an astronaut—she was a revolution personified. When she first pierced the celestial boundary aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1983, she didn‘t just travel to space; she shattered an impenetrable glass ceiling that had confined women‘s dreams for generations.
Imagine the courage required to be the first American woman in space, knowing every movement, every decision would be scrutinized not just as a professional achievement, but as a watershed moment for gender equality in science. Her quarter isn‘t merely a commemorative coin; it‘s a testament to human potential.
The Intricate World of Commemorative Coinage
Minting Magic: More Than Just Metal
When the United States Mint decides to honor an extraordinary individual, it‘s not a casual decision. Each commemorative coin undergoes a meticulous process that transforms raw materials into historical narratives.
The 2022 Dr. Sally Ride Quarter represents the second release in the groundbreaking American Women Quarters Program. Crafted with [91.67%] copper and [8.33%] nickel, this quarter is a miniature canvas telling a profound story of scientific achievement and societal progress.
Technical Specifications: A Collector‘s Delight
- Diameter: 24.3 millimeters
- Weight: 5.67 grams
- Mint Locations: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco
- Design: Reverse side featuring Sally Ride near a space shuttle window
The Market Landscape: Understanding Value
Beyond Monetary Worth
As a seasoned collector, I‘ve learned that a coin‘s true value transcends its market price. The Dr. Sally Ride Quarter represents an intersection of historical significance and numismatic artistry.
Current market evaluations reveal fascinating insights:
Philadelphia Mint (P Mark)
- Circulation Volume: Approximately 275,200,000
- Circulated Condition: [$.25 – $5.40]
- Uncirculated Mint State: [$50 – $1,149]
Denver Mint (D Mark)
- Circulation Volume: Around 278,000,000
- Circulated Condition: [$0.25 – $5.00]
- Uncirculated Mint State: [$50 – $669]
San Francisco Mint (S Mark)
- Proof and Business Strike Varieties
- Limited Mintage: Roughly 304,120
- Silver Proof Edition: 338,270 coins
- Uncirculated Value Range: [$39 – $599]
Collector‘s Insights: Rare Variations and Error Coins
The Thrill of Imperfection
Every seasoned collector knows that sometimes, imperfections create the most extraordinary value. The Dr. Sally Ride Quarter offers several intriguing error variations:
The "Ghost Comet Tail" Phenomenon
Located subtly near Sally‘s neck on the reverse side, this rare error can command prices up to [$1,250]. It‘s a testament to the unpredictable nature of minting processes.
"Drooling George" Portrait Variations
Subtle deformations in George Washington‘s portrait can transform an ordinary quarter into a collector‘s dream, with potential values reaching [$1,500].
Preservation: Protecting Your Numismatic Treasure
The Art of Coin Conservation
Preserving your Dr. Sally Ride Quarter requires more than just careful handling. Consider these professional recommendations:
- Use non-reactive, archival-quality holders
- Maintain consistent temperature and humidity
- Avoid direct skin contact
- Store away from direct sunlight
- Consider professional grading for significant specimens
Investment Perspective: Looking Beyond Today
A Long-Term Numismatic Strategy
While current market values might seem modest, experienced collectors understand the potential of commemorative coins. The Dr. Sally Ride Quarter isn‘t just a piece of currency—it‘s a historical artifact capturing a transformative moment in American scientific and social history.
The Human Story: Why This Coin Matters
Dr. Sally Ride‘s legacy extends far beyond her space missions. She authored six science books for children, inspired countless young women to pursue STEM careers, and fundamentally reshaped societal perceptions of women in science.
This quarter is more than a collectible—it‘s a narrative of human potential, resilience, and breakthrough.
Final Reflections: A Collector‘s Perspective
As someone who has spent decades studying and collecting coins, I can confidently say that the 2022 Dr. Sally Ride Quarter represents something extraordinary. It‘s a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in human history.
Whether you‘re a serious collector, a space enthusiast, or someone who appreciates historical commemoration, this quarter offers a unique window into an extraordinary narrative of human achievement.
Your Collecting Journey Begins Here
Remember, every coin tells a story. The Dr. Sally Ride Quarter whispers tales of courage, innovation, and the relentless human spirit of exploration.
Happy collecting, my fellow numismatic adventurer!
