The Glacier National Park quarter, released on April 4, 2011, is part of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program. This coin features a mountain goat climbing rugged terrain with Mount Reynolds in the background. Minted in both Denver and Philadelphia, it has a total issue quantity of 61,600,000. The quarter honors one of America’s most stunning national parks and serves as a miniature tribute to its natural beauty and wildlife.
What Are the Design Elements of the Glacier National Park Quarter?
The Glacier National Park quarter boasts a design that captures the essence of this majestic park:
- Central Image: A mountain goat, an iconic animal of the park, climbing along rocky terrain.
- Background: The recognizable Northeast slope of Mount Reynolds.
- Inscriptions: Typical quarter inscriptions, including:
- ‘Glacier’
- ‘Montana’
- ‘E Pluribus Unum’
- ‘2011’ (year of issue)
This design effectively represents the rugged beauty and diverse wildlife of Glacier National Park, making it a standout in the America the Beautiful Quarters series.
When Was the Glacier National Park Quarter Released?
The Glacier National Park quarter was officially released on April 4, 2011. This release was part of the broader America the Beautiful Quarters Program timeline:
- Program Start: 2010
- Glacier National Park Quarter Release: April 4, 2011
- Program End: 2021
This program, following the success of the U.S. State Quarters program, aims to honor America’s national parks, sites, and monuments.
What Is the Current Market Value of the Glacier National Park Quarter?
The market value of the Glacier National Park quarter can vary based on several factors:
- Circulation Status:
- Circulated coins: Generally face value ($0.25)
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Uncirculated coins: Potentially higher value
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Condition:
- Mint State (MS) grades can increase value
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MS-65 or higher can be more valuable to collectors
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Mint Mark:
- Denver (D) or Philadelphia (P) mint marks may affect value
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Some collectors prefer specific mint marks
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Errors or Variations:
- Coins with minting errors can be more valuable
- Special editions or proofs may command higher prices
It’s important to note that market values fluctuate. For the most accurate and current valuation, consult a reputable coin dealer or recent coin price guides.
What Are the Specifications of the Glacier National Park Quarter?
The Glacier National Park quarter, like other modern U.S. quarters, has specific physical characteristics:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 0.955 inches (24.3 mm) |
| Weight | 5.670 grams |
| Composition | 91.67% Copper, 8.33% Nickel (clad) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint Marks | D (Denver) or P (Philadelphia) |
Minting Details:
– Denver Mint: 31,200,000 coins
– Philadelphia Mint: 30,400,000 coins
– Total Issue: 61,600,000 coins
These specifications ensure consistency across the America the Beautiful Quarters series while maintaining the standard expected of U.S. coinage.
How Does the Glacier National Park Quarter Fit into the America the Beautiful Program?
The Glacier National Park quarter is a significant part of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program:
- Program Overview:
- Initiated in 2010
- Scheduled to run until 2021
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Features 56 quarters, each honoring a national park or site
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Glacier National Park’s Place:
- 7th quarter released in the series
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Represents Montana in the program
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Significance:
- Highlights one of America’s most beloved national parks
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Showcases the park’s unique wildlife and landscape
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Collector Interest:
- Part of a larger set for coin enthusiasts
- Encourages interest in national parks and conservation
The Glacier National Park quarter serves as both a collectible item and a miniature ambassador for the park itself, potentially inspiring viewers to visit or learn more about this natural wonder.
What Makes Glacier National Park Worthy of Commemoration on a Quarter?
Glacier National Park, established in 1910, is a treasure trove of natural wonders that make it deserving of commemoration:
- Diverse Ecosystems:
- Over 1 million acres of forests, alpine meadows, and lakes
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Home to hundreds of species of animals and thousands of plant species
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Geological Significance:
- Features rock formations dating back over a billion years
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Showcases the effects of ancient glaciers on landscape formation
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Scenic Beauty:
- Known as the ‘Crown of the Continent’
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Offers breathtaking views of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife
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Cultural Heritage:
- Rich in Native American history
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Preserves evidence of early European exploration
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Environmental Indicator:
- Receding glaciers serve as visible evidence of climate change
- Highlights the importance of conservation efforts
The quarter’s design, featuring a mountain goat and Mount Reynolds, encapsulates the park’s rugged beauty and diverse wildlife, making it a fitting tribute to this national treasure.
How Can Collectors Acquire and Preserve the Glacier National Park Quarter?
Collectors interested in the Glacier National Park quarter have several options:
- Acquisition Methods:
- Bank rolls: Request from local banks
- Coin shops: Purchase individual coins or sets
- Online marketplaces: Buy from reputable dealers
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U.S. Mint: Order directly for uncirculated versions
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Preservation Tips:
- Handle by edges to avoid fingerprints
- Store in protective holders or albums
- Keep in a cool, dry environment
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Avoid cleaning, which can damage the coin’s surface
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Grading Considerations:
- Consider professional grading for valuable specimens
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Understand the Sheldon Scale for coin grading
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Collection Integration:
- Add to an America the Beautiful Quarters set
- Combine with other Montana-themed coins
- Create a national parks-themed collection
By following these guidelines, collectors can ensure their Glacier National Park quarter remains in optimal condition, preserving both its beauty and potential value for years to come.