Numismatic

2017-S ATB Frederick Douglas BU (Enhanced Finish) SP-70 NGC

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The America the Beautiful Quarters Program brought a fresh perspective to United States coinage, celebrating historic sites and monumental figures. In 2017, the series honored the legacy of Frederick Douglass with a special release from the San Francisco Mint. This particular coin stands out due to its enhanced finish, a specialized minting technique that uses contrasting frosted and polished surfaces to bring the intricate details of the design to life. The reverse of the coin features a detailed scene depicting Frederick Douglass seated at a writing desk, captured in a moment of reflection. His historic residence in Washington, D.C. is visible in the background, anchoring the design to his life and work in the nation's capital. Inscriptions on this side include "FREDERICK DOUGLASS," "DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA," "2017," and the traditional motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM." On the obverse, the familiar portrait of George Washington is presented with the same enhanced treatment. Surrounding the profile are the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and "QUARTER DOLLAR." The "S" mint mark below the portrait identifies its origin at the San Francisco Mint. This specimen has been certified at the highest possible grade of Specimen 70 (SP-70), denoting a perfect coin with no visible imperfections even under magnification, and is noted as an Early Release.