Edith Kanaka‘ole Quarter: Hawaiian Icons in Coinage

The American Women Quarters program has revealed and promoted the most notable female figures in US history, and it is one of the greatest initiatives possible so far. The year 2023 was marked with the release of the Edith Kanaka‘ole quarter. Why is this notable, and how much is the Edith Kanaka'ole quarter worth? 

In this material, we are to explore the main features of the coin, check its value, and learn more about a person depicted on the surface. Discover numismatic treasures and let your collection thrive!  

Who Was Edith Kanaka‘ole?

Edith Kanaka‘ole (1913–1978) was born and raised in Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii to become a cherished Hawaiian cultural practitioner, educator, composer, and a great supporter of the preservation of the Hawaiian language and traditions.

In fact, what she was passionately devoted to refers to the customs and practices of her ancestors. Her works of art, which skillfully combined traditional knowledge with modern expression, became a crucial component of the Hawaiian cultural renaissance of the 20th century. As a kumu hula (master teacher of hula), she left a legacy that continues to influence generations of dancers and cultural practitioners today. 

While she was taught at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, Edith contributed to the creation of initiatives that incorporated Hawaiian cultural studies into academic programs, which is quite empowering.  In order to ensure that these vital elements of Hawaii's identity were maintained for future generations, she fought for the revival of the Hawaiian language and the continuation of local customs outside of the classroom, on the national level.

More about historic coins: 1975 Dime Value Guide.

Design of the Edith Kanaka‘ole Quarter

The appearance of this coin is quite exquisite, which is why the 2023 Edith Kanaka'ole quarter worth may rise in the end. The design of the instance honors Kanaka‘ole’s contributions to hula, Hawaiian language, and environmental conservation; hence, every component of the design should convey her legacy successfully.

Obverse Design: The quarter's obverse presents a modified portrait of George Washington that was created by Laura Gardin Fraser in 1932 and then adapted for the American Women Quarters Program.

Reverse Design: The reverse side, on its part, demonstrates some element of Hawaiian iconography, the phrase "E hō mai ka ʻike" ("Grant us knowledge"), and the picture of Edith Kanaka'ole with flowing hair, that was sculpted by Renata Gordon and designed by Emily Damstra.

The date of release gives us the opportunity to explore numerous possible mistakes that are to be revealed in the future. The one was made recently, in the summer of 2023. The discovery of a major die clash error on some 2023-P quarters is among the most fascinating options to seek. 

When the dies collide without a planchet in place, there appear imprints of the reverse design on the obverse. As for these coins, their obverse side may display George Washington's profile with the elements of the Hawaiian themes from the reverse, which is to boost the 2023 Edith Kanaka'ole quarter error worth for good.

Related article: 1977 Dime Value.

Edith Kanaka'ole Quarter Worth Revealed

Although the inherent value of this instance is 25 cents when in circulation, the worth of any version (2023 quarter Edith Kanaka'ole quarter worth is no exception) is dependent on numerous factors, including the condition of an instance, its quality, mint marks, and errors as well. Let us quickly navigate the market to study the main pricing trends in terms of the hero of the article.

Should we pay attention to the grades, a pristine Mint State coin with a certificate obtained via professional coin-grading services like PCGS or NGC may potentially fetch $1 to $5. Nevertheless, those instances minted in San Francisco (proof coins in particular) can be valued even higher, often ranging between $10 and $20. 

Moreover, the discovery of die clash errors on the 2023-P quarters opened new perspectives in terms of the Edith Kanaka'ole quarter worth 2023. While early estimates suggest that such coins be worth over $100, more pronounced, sophisticated examples may potentially sell for much more at auctions.

*By the way, for more information about current prices and recently discovered errors, consult Coin ID Scanner, an innovative app with a real numismatic assistant behind! 

The American Women Quarters program is a great opportunity to explore history through coins and get acquainted with people whom you might admire without even knowing. This is why we recommend that you incorporate the entire set into your collection to get educated, cherish history, and carry it for new generations.  

Sources: 

1. https://www.usmint.gov/coins/coin-medal-programs/american-women-quarters/edith-kanakaole.?srsltid=AfmBOoox01UFdCZ2l4UQfQctIN-lDRkPseHqLoU0vUl3CnlbQtmLdWEu 

2. https://www.numismaticnews.net/us-coins/major-error-discovered-on-kanakaole-quarter