Beginning in 2010, the United States Mint began the America the Beautiful coin series. This series was designed to celebrate America’s national parks and monuments by releasing five new coins each year. One coin for 2017 highlights the Ellis Island National Monument in New Jersey. Continue reading to learn more about this coin and whether it’s right for your collection.
DESIGN
The front side of this coin shows the iconic portrait of George Washington that’s also used on all standard United States quarters.
Designer: John Flanagan
The back side of this coin shows a family of immigrants preparing to enter Ellis Island and a new life in the United States. Behind the family sits a hospital building, and the words “ELLIS ISLAND,” “NEW JERSEY,” “2017” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” surround the image.
Designer: Barbara Fox
HISTORY
Ellis Island was once the primary entrance point for those immigrating to the United States. The island was named after its original owner Samuel Ellis. In 1890, Congress decided to use the island as the first federal immigration checkpoint.
Although Ellis Island was closed as an immigration point in 1954, millions of people in history used the station to begin a new life in America. The Ellis Island National Monument was created in 1966.
FACTS
Country
United States of America
Mint
U.S. Mint (West Point)
Metal
0.999 fine silver
Weight
155.5 grams
Diameter
3 inches (76.2 millimeters)
Thickness
0.128 inches (3.25 millimeters)
Date Issued
2017
Face Value
$0.25