Numismatic

1999-S Connecticut State Quarter Gem Proof

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In 1999, the United States Mint embarked on a landmark numismatic journey with the 50 State Quarters Program. Representing the fifth release in this celebrated series, the Connecticut quarter stands out as a beautiful example of modern coinage, especially when struck in the exceptional Gem Proof format at the San Francisco Mint. The obverse of this coin presents the familiar left-facing profile of George Washington, a design originally created by John Flanagan and modified by William Cousins. Surrounding the portrait are the traditional inscriptions, including the national motto and the denomination. A small letter S indicates its origin from the San Francisco facility, where it was struck with specially polished dies to achieve its mirror-like fields and frosted details. On the reverse, designed by T. James Ferrell, the coin honors Connecticut's heritage by depicting the famous Charter Oak tree. This historic oak is celebrated as the hiding place for the colony's original charter of 1662, keeping it safe from royal seizure. The reverse design features the state name, the year of admission, and the phrase "The Charter Oak," alongside the national motto "E Pluribus Unum" and the year of issue, 1999.