Numismatic

2009-P U.S. Territory Northern Mariana Islands Quarter BU

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In 2009, the United States Mint expanded its celebratory quarter program to honor various territories, including the Northern Mariana Islands. This particular coin, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, remains in brilliant uncirculated condition, preserving the sharp details of its unique, island-inspired imagery. The reverse side of the coin features an intricate composition designed by Phoebe Hemphill. It showcases a traditional limestone latte stone, a monumental pillar central to the indigenous culture. Alongside the stone, a Carolinian canoe glides across the water, while two white fairy terns fly overhead. A decorative mwar, or traditional flower lei, frames the scene, representing the welcoming spirit of the islands. The inscriptions read NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS and E PLURIBUS UNUM, alongside the year of issue. On the obverse, the classic left-facing portrait of George Washington, originally designed by John Flanagan, takes center stage. This familiar depiction is accompanied by the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the denomination, QUARTER DOLLAR. A small P mint mark indicates its origin from the Philadelphia facility.