The 1893 Isabella Quarter, often mistakenly referred to as a half dollar possibly due to confusion or typo, is actually a commemorative coin issued by the United States Mint. This coin was struck in honor of the World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893 and is notable for being the first commemorative coin authorized by the U.S. Congress that featured a historical female figure, Queen Isabella I of Spain. Here's a closer look at this distinctive coin:

### Design and Specifications:
- **Obverse:** The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Queen Isabella I of Spain. The inscription around the edge reads "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the year "1893."
- **Reverse:** The reverse design depicts a kneeling female figure, symbolizing women's industry, holding a distaff and spindle. The words "BOARD OF LADY MANAGERS" and "WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION CHICAGO" encircle the design, along with the denomination "QUAR. DOL."
- **Diameter:** 24.3 mm
- **Weight:** 6.25 grams
- **Composition:** 90% silver and 10% copper, mirroring the composition of other quarter dollars of the period.
- **Minted:** The coin was minted at the Philadelphia Mint, and it does not bear a mint mark.

### Background and Significance:
- The Isabella quarter was commissioned to raise funds for the Board of Lady Managers at the World's Columbian Exposition. The idea was to use the proceeds from the sale of these coins to fund the Woman's Building at the exposition.
- The inclusion of Queen Isabella was symbolic, paying tribute to her support of Christopher Columbus's voyages, which the exposition itself was celebrating.
- Initially, the Board of Lady Managers requested a half dollar coin, but the final approval was for a quarter-dollar piece.
- It was designed by Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time, with Kenyon Cox designing the reverse.

### Collectibility and Value:
- The 1893 Isabella Quarter is sought after by collectors of commemorative coins and those interested in numismatic pieces related to significant historical events and figures. 
- Being the first U.S. coin to honor a real woman adds to its appeal and historical significance.
- Its value varies widely depending on condition, with higher grades commanding substantial premiums. Typically, prices range from a few hundred dollars for coins in decent condition to thousands for examples in near-pristine states graded by reputable services.

Despite the initial misunderstanding referring to it as a half dollar, the 1893 Isabella Quarter stands out in the realm of U.S. commemorative coinage due to its unique historical context and significance, as well as its appeal among collectors.