Numismatic

2011-D ATB Quarter Vicksburg National Military Park BU

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This 2011 quarter from the Denver Mint, part of the America the Beautiful series, highlights a crucial chapter in American history. The reverse of this copper coin features the U.S.S. Cairo, an ironclad gunboat that went down during the Civil War's Battle of Vicksburg. Decades later, in 1964, the vessel was salvaged and reconstructed, preserving a tangible link to the conflict. The coin honors Vicksburg National Military Park, a site dedicated to remembering the intense 47 day siege of a Confederate stronghold. This pivotal military campaign ultimately secured Union authority over the Mississippi River. Today, the park also serves as a sanctuary for the Vicksburg National Cemetery, which is the final burial ground for 17,077 Civil War casualties. On the obverse, the familiar portrait of George Washington is surrounded by the traditional inscriptions of "United States of America", "Liberty", "In God We Trust", and "Quarter Dollar", alongside the "D" mint mark indicating its Denver origin. The reverse bears the name "Vicksburg" and the year 2011, alongside the national motto "E Pluribus Unum".