1997 U.S. Washington Quarter

This item is a 1997 United States quarter dollar coin, commonly known as a Washington Quarter. The obverse side of the coin is visible, featuring a left-facing profile bust of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Surrounding the bust are several inscriptions: 'LIBERTY' arches across the top rim, 'IN GOD WE TRUST' is positioned to the left of Washington's neck, and the year '1997' is prominently displayed below the bust. A mint mark, likely 'P' or 'D' (for Philadelphia or Denver mints, respectively), appears to be present to the right of Washington's ponytail, though it is slightly indistinct in the provided image. The coin exhibits a metallic silver-gray color, consistent with its copper-nickel clad composition (a layer of 75% copper and 25% nickel over a pure copper core). The edges appear reeded. In terms of condition, the coin shows moderate circulation wear. There are visible scuff marks and light scratches across the surface, particularly noticeable on Washington's cheek and hair, as well as in the fields around the inscriptions. The raised elements of the design, such as Washington's hair details and the lettering, show some flattening due to wear. There is no significant corrosion or deep damage, but a typical patina from age and handling is present, giving it a somewhat dulled luster compared to an uncirculated coin. No significant errors or unique features are immediately discernible from this view, making it a standard issue circulating currency coin.

I have examined the provided image of this 1997 U.S. Washington Quarter. Based on the visual evidence, it is an authentic United States quarter of the George Washington design, struck in 1997. The coin exhibits typical characteristics of a standard circulating currency quarter, including the copper-nickel clad composition and reeded edge. The overall condition is consistent with 'Good' (G-4) to 'Very Good' (VG-8) on the Sheldon grading scale, showing moderate circulation wear with visible flattening of design elements and numerous scuffs and light scratches across the fields and high points, such as Washington's cheek and hair. The mint mark, while indistinct, does not appear to be an 'S' (San Francisco Mint, which would denote a proof coin and higher value). Market conditions for common-date, circulated Washington Quarters of this era are extremely stable and low. These coins are readily available in vast quantities, making them neither rare nor in high demand among collectors in this condition. The primary factor impacting its value is its status as a widely circulating coin with significant wear. Without any discernible errors, special varieties, or proof designation, its intrinsic and numismatic value remains at face value. For full authentication and a more precise grade, an in-person examination would be necessary to thoroughly inspect the entire surface, rim, and edge for any minute details, potential errors not visible in the image, or signs of alteration. Without physical inspection, I cannot definitively rule out extremely subtle anomalies or verify the precise mint mark.