The USA Isabella Quarter 1893 is a commemorative silver coin issued for the World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893. It was authorized at the request of the Board of Lady Managers to represent women’s contributions to the fair.

Struck in 90% silver, the obverse features a portrait of Queen Isabella I of Castile, who sponsored Christopher Columbus’s voyage. The reverse depicts a woman kneeling with a distaff and spindle, symbolizing industry and women’s achievements.

 

The Isabella Quarter is notable as the first U.S. coin to depict a real historical woman and remains an important collectible in American numismatics.