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The Standing Liberty Quarter from 1917-D Type II is a significant coin in the history of American numismatics, known for its distinctive design and historical context. This particular issue represents the second type of the Standing Liberty Quarter, a series that was minted from 1916 to 1930. The 1917-D Type II is notable for its design modifications, which were implemented to address specific concerns about the coin’s aesthetics and practicality. This coin, struck at the Denver Mint, reflects a transitional period in American coinage and continues to be a valuable collectible for enthusiasts and historians alike.
The Standing Liberty Quarter was introduced in 1916, replacing the Barber Quarter as part of an effort to refresh the design of U.S. coinage. The design was created by Hermon Atkins MacNeil, an accomplished sculptor whose work was commissioned as part of a broader initiative to modernize American coins. The coin's introduction marked a departure from the more traditional designs that preceded it, embracing a contemporary and symbolic representation of liberty. The Standing Liberty Quarter was produced in two main types: Type I, minted from 1916 to early 1917, and Type II, which began production in mid-1917 and continued until 1930.
The 1917-D Type II Standing Liberty Quarter is distinguished from its Type I predecessor by several design changes. One of the most noticeable differences is the modification to the coin’s reverse. In the Type I design, the eagle on the reverse had a more narrow appearance with a somewhat awkward pose. For the Type II design, the eagle was redesigned to appear fuller and more balanced, with a more natural posture and more detailed feathers. The reverse now also features a larger shield on the eagle’s chest, which was intended to enhance the coin’s overall appearance and readability.
On the obverse of the coin, Lady Liberty is depicted standing with a shield in her left hand and an olive branch in her right, symbolizing protection and peace. The design is striking and symbolic, with Lady Liberty facing forward and standing confidently, embodying the ideals of American liberty and strength. The Type II design features a more refined and detailed depiction of Lady Liberty compared to the Type I, with the details of her gown and the shield being more pronounced. The obverse also includes the inscription “LIBERTY” at the top and the date of minting below Lady Liberty.
The 1917-D Type II Standing Liberty Quarter was minted at the Denver Mint, one of the primary facilities responsible for producing U.S. coinage during this era. The Denver Mint, established in 1906, was known for its high-quality coin production and played a crucial role in the minting of various U.S. coins. The “D” mintmark on the coin signifies its origin from the Denver Mint, distinguishing it from coins produced at other mints such as Philadelphia or San Francisco. The mint’s expertise in striking ensured that the coin’s design was rendered with precision and clarity.
The mintage of the 1917-D Type II Standing Liberty Quarter was relatively moderate compared to other coins of the era. According to numismatic records, approximately 1,944,000 of these quarters were produced, making it less common than some other issues in the series but still accessible to collectors. The limited production contributes to the coin’s appeal, as it represents a specific moment in the series’ evolution and is a testament to the craftsmanship of the Denver Mint.
In terms of condition, the 1917-D Type II Standing Liberty Quarter graded as Fine represents a coin that has been in circulation but retains a respectable level of detail. In Fine condition, the coin will exhibit wear consistent with its age and use, including smoothing of high points and some loss of detail on the design elements. However, the overall design elements, such as Lady Liberty’s figure and the eagle on the reverse, remain recognizable and distinguishable. The coin’s historical significance and unique design features continue to make it an attractive piece for collectors despite its circulated condition.
The Standing Liberty Quarter 1917-D Type II in Fine condition is a notable piece of American numismatic history, reflecting a period of transition and innovation in coin design. Its distinct features, combined with its moderate mintage and historical context, contribute to its enduring appeal among collectors and historians. This coin not only represents a specific era in American coinage but also showcases the artistic and design achievements of early 20th-century U.S. minting.