Numismatic

1917-D Standing Liberty Quarter Type-I AU

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In 1917, the Denver Mint produced a distinctive variety of the Standing Liberty quarter known to numismatists as the Type I. Struck in 90 percent silver, this coin represents the initial artistic vision for the series before design modifications were introduced later in the same year. These early silver issues circulated in American commerce until the mid twentieth century, when the transition to base-metal clad coinage prompted their withdrawal from public circulation. The obverse of this quarter features a full-length figure of Liberty stepping forward through an opening in a wall. In one hand she holds a defensive shield, while her other hand extends an olive branch as a symbol of peace. The inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST" is visible flanking her figure, with the date 1917 positioned at the very bottom. This initial Type I design presents a bare-breasted depiction of Liberty, which was covered in the Type II design that followed. On the reverse, a majestic eagle is depicted in mid flight, soaring through the air. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the traditional Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" accompany the flying eagle. This specific coin has survived in Almost Uncirculated condition, preserving the fine details of Hermon MacNeil's celebrated composition, which contains approximately 0.1788 troy ounces of pure silver.