Jovita Idar Quarter — Top Questions Collectors Actually Ask

The Jovita Idar quarter is part of the U.S. Mint’s American Women Quarters Program, introduced in 2022 to honor influential American women. This quarter was issued in August 2023 and was the fourth design of that year. The coin honors Jovita Idar, who was a journalist, teacher, and activist, stood for education and equality within the Mexican American community.

Question 1: What Is the Jovita Idar Quarter and When Was It Released?

The Jovita Idar quarter was issued in August 2023 by the U.S. Mint as part of the American Women Quarters Program. On the front, the coin shows George Washington’s portrait facing right. This design by Laura Gardin Fraser is used on all coins in the series. The reverse of the quarter shows Jovita Idar holding a newspaper, with words in English and Spanish with her work, influencing the Mexican American community. The design is clean and strong, showing her as both a writer and a leader.

This quarter looks similar to other modern coins and other quarters of the issue in size and metal but stands out for its historical meaning and realistic details.

Question 2: How Many Jovita Idar Quarters Were Minted and Where?

The Jovita Idar quarter was struck at three U.S. Mints: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Most coins were made for everyday circulation, while the San Francisco Mint produced smaller numbers for collector proof sets.

Circulation coins from Philadelphia and Denver are easy to find in pocket change or rolls. They look similar but may vary slightly in strike quality and color tone because of different minting conditions.

Proof and silver proof quarters from San Francisco were never released into general use. Silver proof versions were struck on .999 fine silver planchets and are usually sold in official U.S. Mint sets.

Tip: If you collect by mint mark, keep one coin from each location — P, D, S, and Silver Proof. Together they make a complete 2023 Jovita Idar mini-set.

Question 3: What Is the Real Value of the Jovita Idar Quarter?

Most quarters in circulation are still worth 25 cents, but a few factors can raise their value: condition, finish, and possible minting errors. And coins with sharp details, without scratches, and original luster can sell for several times face value (especially when grade is confirmed by professional services).

High-grade proof coins in their original U.S. Mint packaging often reaches the best prices. Silver proofs are the most desirable for long-term collecting. And coins with verified errors, e.g., die cracks, doubled dies, or off-center strikes can reach several hundred dollars if authenticated.

Fact: Even though the Jovita Idar quarter isn’t rare, pristine uncirculated examples with strong strikes and no marks are harder to find than it may seem. Keeping these protected now can make a difference in value later.

Question 4: What Are the Most Known Mint Errors on This Coin?

Collectors have identified several notable mint errors on the Jovita Idar quarter. They add interest and may increase the value if confirmed by grading services. Below you can see some the most common:

1. “In Cod We Trust” error
   
   

• Caused by grease-filled dies that obscure part of the “G” or “O” in “GOD”.

• Light versions bring small premiums, while strong examples may reach $150–$200.

2. Off-center strike

• Result from misaligned planchets during minting.

• Slightly off-center pieces (5–10%) can sell for $80; larger shifts over 20% may exceed $400.

3. Clipped planchet

• Part of the coin edge appears cut or missing.

• Usually sells for $50–$150 depending on shape and visibility.

4. Double die (DDO/DDRs)

• Doubling seen in letters or parts of the design, especially around “LIBERTY” or “QUARTER DOLLAR”.

• Strong examples can exceed $300.

5. Struck-through error

• Occurs when debris or grease interferes during striking, leaving smooth or blurred areas.

• Minor examples sell for $20–$60; major ones can reach $150.

Learn to recognize real mint errors — it helps you separate ordinary coins from those worth grading or keeping in your main collection.

Question 5: How Does the Jovita Idar Quarter Compare to Other 2023 Issues?

The 2023 American Women Quarters include five designs: Bessie Coleman (pioneering aviator); Edith Kanaka‘ole (Hawaiian cultural educator); Eleanor Roosevelt (humanitarian and First Lady); Jovita Idar (journalist and activist); Maria Tallchief (America’s first major ballerina).

Each coin has similar circulation figures, yet popularity differs. Jovita Idar and Eleanor Roosevelt quarters tend to attract the most attention due to their strong portrait style and historical themes.

Fact: The Jovita Idar coin’s design makes it one of the most recognizable in the series, often preferred by collectors seeking coins with a historical value.

Question 6: What Should Collectors Look for When Examining the Coin?

When examining a Jovita Idar quarter, focus on both the strike quality and the overall condition. The shine should be even and smooth, and the fine details on the face and newspaper should appear clear. The fewer scratches or dull spots, the higher the potential grade.

Key points to check:

• Surface and luster: consistent shine without discoloration or haze.

• Details: lettering and portrait lines should be sharp.

• Weight: about 5.67 g for clad and 6.25 g for silver proofs — big differences may suggest an error.

Always hold the coin by the edges and work on a soft surface to avoid damage. Neutral lighting helps you see flaws more clearly.

Tip: Store coins in airtight holders or albums without PVC — this prevents green spots and corrosion over time.

Question 7: Is the Jovita Idar Quarter Worth Collecting Long-Term?

The Jovita Idar quarter isn’t rare, but it has clear historical and collecting value, as it marks an important part of the American Women Quarters program. Proof and silver proof versions remain the best options for collectors thanks to their limited mintage and sharp detail. 

And if you are going to build full 2023 or 2022–2025 collections, the Idar quarter adds both meaning and balance. And when collecting, remember to use  modern tools like the Coin ID Scanner to identify pieces, check details and organize collections quickly. It saves time and prevents confusion when your collection grows.