Numismatic

2002-S Tennessee State Quarter Gem Proof (Silver)

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In 2002, the United States Mint continued its celebrated 50 State Quarters Program with a special release honoring the state of Tennessee. This particular coin, struck at the San Francisco Mint, is a proof edition minted in 90 percent silver, containing approximately 0.1788 troy ounces of precious metal. As the sixteenth entry in this historic multi-year series, the coin represents a beautiful marriage of traditional American iconography and localized cultural pride. The front of the quarter displays the familiar profile of George Washington, a classic portrait originally sculpted by John Flanagan and later modified by William Cousins. Positioned near the bottom of the obverse is the small "S" mint mark, indicating its origin from the San Francisco facility. Legible inscriptions on this side include the words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the denomination "QUARTER DOLLAR." On the reverse, designed by Donna Weaver, the coin celebrates the deep-seated musical heritage of Tennessee. The design showcases three acoustic instruments: a fiddle, a trumpet, and a guitar, which represent the diverse musical traditions that have flourished within the state. Arching above this instrumental trio is the inscription "MUSICAL HERITAGE," while the state name "TENNESSEE" sits at the top. The year 2002 and the national motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" are inscribed at the bottom, completing a design that captures the artistic spirit of the region.