The Anna May Wong Quarter: A Commemoration of the Iconic Asian-American Actress

Introduction

The United States Mint recently unveiled the Anna May Wong Quarter, the fifth release in its American Women Quarters Program. This historic coin commemorates the groundbreaking achievements of Wong, who was the first Chinese American actress to achieve international fame in Hollywood cinema.

Anna May Wong: A Trailblazing Icon

Anna May Wong (1905-1961) was born in Los Angeles, California, to Chinese immigrant parents. Despite facing racial prejudice and limited opportunities, she pursued her passion for acting with determination and resilience.

Wong's career spanned over three decades and included groundbreaking roles in both American and European films. She gained recognition for her performances in "The Toll of the Sea" (1922), "Shanghai Express" (1932), and "Daughter of the Dragon" (1931).

Wong's talent and charisma captivated audiences worldwide. However, she often faced discrimination and typecasting in Hollywood, which limited her opportunities to play American characters. Despite these challenges, she remained a symbol of hope and inspiration for Asian-American and minority actors.

The Anna May Wong Quarter

The Anna May Wong Quarter was designed by artist Emily Damstra and sculpted by Craig Campbell. The obverse (heads) of the coin features a portrait of Wong with her signature "dragon lady" hairstyle, a nod to her iconic film roles. The reverse (tails) depicts a scene from "The Toll of the Sea," highlighting her breakthrough performance.

The United States Mint has produced 498 million Anna May Wong Quarters, which entered circulation in October 2022. This commemorative coin not only honors Wong's legacy but also represents a significant milestone in the United States' recognition of the contributions of Asian-Americans and women in history.

The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion

The Anna May Wong Quarter is a testament to the growing diversity and inclusivity of American society. It sends a powerful message that the achievements of all Americans, regardless of race, gender, or background, should be recognized and celebrated.

The coin serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Asian-Americans and minorities throughout history and the importance of creating a more equitable and just society for all.

The Economic Impact of the Anna May Wong Quarter

The Anna May Wong Quarter has a significant economic impact. The United States Mint estimates that the coin will generate over $100 million in seigniorage revenue, which is the difference between the face value of the coins and their production costs.

This revenue is used to fund the production of future commemorative coins and other United States Mint programs. Additionally, the Anna May Wong Quarter is a collectible item that is expected to increase in value over time.

Tables

• Table 1: Anna May Wong Film Credits

• Table 2: Anna May Wong Awards and Honors

• Table 3: Anna May Wong Legacy

| Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Paved the way for Asian-American actors in Hollywood |
| Represented Asian culture and identity on the silver screen |
| Inspired generations of Asian-Americans and minorities |

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistaking the Anna May Wong Quarter for a dollar coin. The Anna May Wong Quarter is a quarter-dollar coin with a face value of 25 cents.
• Thinking that the Anna May Wong Quarter is made of gold. The coin is actually made of copper-nickel-clad aluminum.
• Selling the Anna May Wong Quarter at face value. The coin's collectible value may be worth more than its face value in the future.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Commemorates the legacy of an iconic Asian-American actress
• Promotes diversity and inclusivity
• Generates seigniorage revenue
• Collectible item with potential value appreciation

Cons:

• Limited availability
• May face increased demand and market speculation
• May be subject to counterfeiting

FAQs

1. Who was Anna May Wong?
   Anna May Wong was a Chinese American actress who broke barriers in Hollywood cinema.
2. Why is the Anna May Wong Quarter significant?
   It represents the first time an Asian American actress has been featured on a United States coin.
3. How much is the Anna May Wong Quarter worth?
   The face value is 25 cents, but its collectible value may be higher.
4. Where can I get an Anna May Wong Quarter?
   The coins are available through banks, credit unions, and coin dealers.
5. What is the Anna May Wong Quarter made of?
   It is made of copper-nickel-clad aluminum.
6. How many Anna May Wong Quarters were produced?
   The United States Mint produced 498 million Anna May Wong Quarters.

Call to Action

The Anna May Wong Quarter is a historic coin that celebrates the achievements of a groundbreaking Asian-American icon. It is a symbol of progress and diversity in American society. Collect this coin to honor Anna May Wong's legacy and support the United States Mint's efforts to recognize the contributions of all Americans.