2023-P Native American $1 - Maria Tallchief BU (25-Coin Roll)

• Composition: 77% Copper, 12% Zinc, 7% Manganese and 4% Nickel.
• Coins will come packaged 25 in a paper wrap or plastic roll.
• Obverse: Bust facing right of Sacagawea with her infant son.
• Reverse: Depicts Maria Tallchief in a ballerina pose, with other dancers and depictions of moons in the background.
• Edge: "2023," "P" Philadelphia mint mark with motto "E Pluribus Unum" inscribed on edge.
• Maria Tallchief was the first major prima ballerina from America. In addition to Maria, there were four other Native American women, earning them the name "Five Moons," which the reverse gives nod to.

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Maria Tallchief was an American ballerina who is widely regarded as one of the most significant dancers in the history of ballet. Born on January 24, 1925 on an Osage Indian reservation in Fairfax, Oklahoma, Tallchief was the first American to become a prima ballerina of the New York City Ballet, and her contributions to the world of dance have been significant.

Tallchief was born to an Osage father and a Scottish-Irish mother. Her father, Alexander Tall Chief, was a member of the Osage Nation, and his family had a long history of involvement in the tribe's ceremonial dances. Tallchief's mother, Ruth Porter, was a pianist who instilled a love of music and the arts in her daughter from an early age.

Tallchief began her formal dance training with the renowned Russian ballet master Bronislava Nijinska in California when she was 12 years old. Nijinska recognized Tallchief's talent and encouraged her to move to New York City to continue her training at the School of American Ballet.

In 1942, Tallchief joined the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, one of the most prestigious ballet companies in the world. She quickly rose through the ranks and became the company's prima ballerina in 1944 at the age of 19. Tallchief's performances were noted for their technical excellence, dramatic flair, and effortless grace.

Tallchief's career took off in the 1950s when she joined the newly-formed New York City Ballet, which was founded by the legendary choreographer George Balanchine. Balanchine was known for his innovative choreography and his preference for American dancers, and he quickly recognized Tallchief's talent.

Tallchief's partnership with Balanchine was a defining moment in her career. Balanchine created many roles for her, including the lead in his famous ballet, "The Firebird," which became one of her signature performances. Tallchief's dancing was praised for its precision, musicality and emotional depth, and she quickly became a beloved figure in the world of dance.

Tallchief's influence on the world of dance cannot be overstated. She was a trailblazer for American dancers and helped to establish ballet as a respected art form in the United States. She was also a role model for young girls who aspired to become ballerinas, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

In addition to her contributions to the world of dance, Tallchief was also an advocate for Native American rights. She was proud of her Osage heritage and used her platform to raise awareness about the struggles facing Native Americans. She was a member of the Osage Nation and worked to preserve and promote Native American culture throughout her life.

Tallchief's legacy is still felt in the world of dance today. She paved the way for future generations of American dancers and inspired countless people with her talent, dedication and grace. Her contributions to the arts and her advocacy for Native American rights make her an important historical figure and a true American icon.