Numismatic

2017-S ATB Quarter Frederick Douglas BU (Enhanced Finish)

---

This 25 cent coin from 2017 belongs to the America the Beautiful series, showcasing a distinctive enhanced finish from the San Francisco Mint. The obverse displays the familiar inscriptions of Liberty, United States of America, Quarter Dollar, and In God We Trust, alongside the 'S' mint mark. On the reverse, the design honors the Frederick Douglass National Historical Park, featuring the famous abolitionist seated at his writing desk. In the background sits Cedar Hill, his Washington, D.C. residence which he bought in 1877. This historic property was established as a national site in 1962 and eventually opened for public visitors in 1972. Born into slavery in 1818, Douglass successfully escaped during his youth to become a powerful author and orator for the abolitionist movement. He spent his later years in the nation's capital, challenging segregation and holding public office during an era when political participation for African Americans was heavily restricted. He lived at Cedar Hill until his death in 1895 at the age of 77.