AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a United States quarter-dollar coin, part of the 'America the Beautiful Quarters' program. This specific coin celebrates Shawnee National Forest in Illinois and was minted in 2016. The reverse side (shown) depicts the iconic 'Camel Rock' formation against a backdrop of vegetation, with a soaring red-tailed hawk above. The design includes the inscriptions 'SHAWNEE' at the top, 'ILLINOIS' and 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' along the sides, and the year '2016' at the bottom. Made of a copper-nickel clad composition, the coin measures 24.26 mm in diameter with a weight of approximately 5.67 grams. In terms of condition, the coin appears to have been in circulation, showing moderate surface abrasions, minor scuffing on the primary rock motif, and visible dirt or toning within the recessed lettering and textured areas. The metallic sheen suggests it retains some original luster but is not in uncirculated state. The reeded edge appears largely intact. This coin represents the 31st release in the overall series and was designed by Justin Kunz and engraved by Jim Licaretz.

I have carefully examined the provided images of this 2016 Shawnee National Forest Quarter. The coin exhibits a copper-nickel clad composition and features the signature 'Camel Rock' design by Justin Kunz. Upon visual inspection, the piece shows clear signs of moderate circulation, including surface abrasions, scuffing on the high points of the rock motif, and accumulated grime in the recessed lettering. While it retains some metallic luster, it does not meet the criteria for an Uncirculated (MS) grade. Authenticity appears consistent with United States Mint production standards for business-strike coinage. From a market perspective, the America the Beautiful series saw high mintage figures for the Shawnee release. Over 300 million were struck between the Philadelphia and Denver mints. Because this specific specimen shows wear and lacks any visible mint errors or rare varieties, its market value is equivalent to its face value. Even in high-grade Uncirculated condition, these coins generally trade for less than $1.00 unless they are certified at the highest levels (MS67 or above). Limitations of this appraisal include the inability to verify the precise weight to 0.01g or analyze the metal composition for potential off-metal errors. A physical examination under 10x magnification would be required to rule out subtle die clashes or doubling. For a definitive numismatic certification, the coin would need to be submitted to a third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC; however, the costs of such authentication would far exceed the market value of this specific item.