Numismatic

2009-S U.S. Territory Guam Quarter Proof (Silver)

---

This 2009 proof quarter, struck at the San Francisco Mint, honors the United States territory of Guam. Crafted from 90 percent silver with a precious metal content of 0.17875 troy ounces, the coin stands out with its highly polished proof finish. The design elements bring the geography and cultural heritage of the Pacific island to life on a small silver canvas. The reverse side of the coin displays a detailed outline of the island of Guam, accompanied by a traditional sailing vessel known as a proa. Alongside the boat, a stone pillar known as a latte stone is depicted, representing a key element of ancient Chamorro architecture. The inscriptions on this side include the name of the territory in both English and Chamorro, reading "GUAM" and "Guahan I Tano I ManChamorro", alongside the year 2009 and the traditional motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM". On the obverse, the coin features the familiar profile of George Washington. This side carries the standard inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "LIBERTY", "IN GOD WE TRUST", and the face value of "QUARTER DOLLAR". The small "S" mint mark is also visible, denoting its origin from the San Francisco Minting facility. The visual composition of this coin is the result of collaborative design work by John Flanagan, William Cousins, and Jim Licaretz.