Ever since 2010, the United States Mint has been issuing five coins each year in celebration of the country’s national parks and historic sites. These coins are known collectively as the America the Beautiful Series. One of these coins celebrates Everglades National Park in the southern tip of Florida. Continue reading to learn more about the park, this coin, and whether it’s right for your collection.
DESIGN
The front side of the coin shows a famous portrait of George Washington, the first president of the United States. This portrait is also present on all U.S. quarters.
Designer: John Flanagan
The back side of the coin shows an anhinga with a roseate spoonbill in the background. Both are native Florida birds, and they are shown standing in the wetlands of the Everglades.
Designer: Joel Iskowitz
HISTORY
The Everglades have housed both people and diverse animal life for thousands of years. In the 1900s, an attempt to drain the Everglades for development truly showed how much destruction could come from destroying the vital ecosystems.
With the area’s importance discovered, attempts to preserve the Everglades began, and the U.S. House of Representatives decided to create a national park in the area. President Truman dedicated the Everglades National Park in 1947 and serves to protect the Everglades to this day.
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
2014
Face Value
$0.25