Numismatic

2017-D ATB Quarter Frederick Douglas National Historic Site BU

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This 2017 quarter from the Denver Mint, part of the America the Beautiful series, celebrates the legacy of Frederick Douglass at his historic estate in Washington, D.C. The reverse design showcases Douglass seated at his writing desk, with his beloved home, Cedar Hill, rising in the background. The detailed scene captures the essence of a man who dedicated his life to the pursuit of freedom and equality. Born into slavery in 1818, Douglass escaped bondage during his youth to become a powerful orator and writer in the abolitionist movement. After relocating to the nation's capital, he took on various civil and political roles, eventually purchasing his Cedar Hill residence in 1877, where he lived until his death in 1895. This coin serves as a miniature monument to his enduring impact on American history. The obverse of the coin displays the traditional portrait of George Washington, accompanied by the familiar inscriptions of Liberty, In God We Trust, United States of America, and Quarter Dollar. The Denver 'D' mintmark is also clearly visible, marking its origin from the Colorado facility.