Numismatic

2005-S Minnesota State Quarter Gem Proof

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In 2005, the United States Mint celebrated the state of Minnesota with a beautifully detailed quarter design. This specific coin, struck at the San Francisco Mint with the 'S' mint mark, is a Gem Proof specimen. It features a copper-nickel outer layer bonded to a core of pure copper, resulting in a striking contrast that highlights the intricate details of the design. The obverse displays the classic profile of George Washington, originally designed by John Flanagan. Surrounding the portrait are the familiar inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'LIBERTY', 'IN GOD WE TRUST', and the denomination 'QUARTER DOLLAR'. This side showcases the refined, polished finish characteristic of the proof minting process. On the reverse, Charles L. Vickers designed a scene honoring Minnesota's identity as the 'Land of 10,000 Lakes'. The artwork depicts a textured outline of the state map framing a tranquil, tree-lined lake where two people fish from a boat. In the foreground, a detailed loon rests on the water. The reverse is inscribed with 'MINNESOTA', 'LAND OF 10,000 LAKES', the year '2005', and the national motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'.