Numismatic

2017-D ATB Quarter Ellis Island National Monument BU

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In 2017, the United States Mint celebrated a historic gateway of hope with a special quarter honoring the Ellis Island National Monument. Minted in Denver, this coin is a member of the extensive America the Beautiful series, a 56-coin collection highlighting the nation's most treasured parks and historic locations. The reverse side of the coin presents a poignant scene designed by Barbara Fox and engraved by Phebe Hemphill. It depicts an immigrant family standing on the deck of a ship, looking forward as they approach their new lives, with the historic hospital building of Ellis Island visible in the background. This site served as the nation's most active immigrant inspection station for more than 60 years, processing 12 million people before it finally ceased operations in 1954. Today, the island is situated next to the Statue of Liberty National Monument and is recognized as part of New Jersey. On the obverse, the coin displays the classic portrait of George Washington, a design originally modeled by John Flanagan. Surrounding the first president are the traditional inscriptions "United States of America," "Liberty," "In God We Trust," and the denomination "Quarter Dollar." A small "D" mint mark is also visible, indicating its origin at the Denver Mint.