Numismatic

2009-D U.S. Territory American Samoa Quarter BU

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In 2009, the United States Mint expanded its circulating commemorative program to honor the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories. Among these releases is a distinctive quarter struck at the Denver Mint, dedicated to American Samoa. This coin, preserved in brilliant uncirculated condition, features a copper core clad in copper-nickel, presenting a crisp strike that highlights the intricate details of its dual-sided design. The obverse showcases the familiar left-facing portrait of George Washington, originally designed by John Flanagan. Surrounding the president's image are the traditional inscriptions of the nation's currency, including the national motto and the denomination, alongside the "D" mint mark indicating its origin in Denver. On the reverse, designer Charles L. Vickers captures the cultural heritage and natural landscape of the islands. The central imagery features an ava bowl, a ceremonial whisk, and a staff in the foreground, representing the traditional authority and welcoming customs of the Samoan people. Behind these cultural symbols, a coconut tree stands on the shoreline. The reverse is inscribed with "AMERICAN SAMOA" and the Samoan phrase "SAMOA MUAMUA LE ATUA", alongside the year of issue and the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM".