2012-D Acadia National Park Quarter: A Collector’s Guide

The 2012-D Acadia National Park Quarter is part of the America the Beautiful Quarters program, a series that commemorates national parks and historical sites across the United States. This specific coin pays tribute to Acadia National Park, located in Maine, with a beautiful design that captures its unique and rugged landscape. The Denver Mint produced the 2012-D version of this quarter, which has become an intriguing coin for collectors due to its design, history, and potential value.

Background of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program

The America the Beautiful Quarters program launched in 2010 and will run until 2021, featuring five new quarters each year. Each coin in the series showcases a national park or historical site from a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia. The Acadia National Park Quarter is the 13th release in this series and was issued on June 11, 2012.

Acadia National Park, established in 1916, is one of the first national parks on the eastern coast. Known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, rocky beaches, and lush forests, Acadia’s natural beauty is celebrated through this quarter.

Design Features of the Acadia National Park Quarter

1. Obverse (Front)
   • Like all coins in the series, the obverse features the familiar portrait of George Washington. This design has been a staple of U.S. quarters since 1932.
2. Reverse (Back)
   • The reverse side of the Acadia quarter displays a detailed depiction of Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, perched on the rugged Maine coastline.
   • The design is framed by the words “ACADIA,” “MAINE,” “2012,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
   • Barbara Fox designed the image, and it was sculpted by Joseph Menna.

The intricate artistry captures the essence of Acadia, making it one of the standout designs in the America the Beautiful Quarters program.

Mintage and Rarity

The Denver Mint produced 2012-D Acadia National Park Quarters with a mintage of 143,400,000 coins. While this mintage is relatively high, uncirculated or high-grade coins are much scarcer and are especially desirable to collectors.

Proof and silver proof versions of the coin were also minted at the San Francisco Mint for collectors, further enhancing the variety available for enthusiasts of the series.

Value of the 2012-D Acadia National Park Quarter

For most circulated versions, the 2012-D Acadia Quarter retains its face value of 25 cents. However, uncirculated or mint-condition examples can fetch higher prices. Coins graded MS65 or higher can sell for $3 to $5, depending on demand.

Proof versions or silver proof quarters are valued higher, often ranging between $10 and $20 for pristine examples. Specially graded coins or error coins can increase in value significantly.

Tips for Collectors

1. Condition Matters
   Look for quarters with minimal scratches and strong luster. Coins graded MS65 or higher have the best value.
2. Consider Special Editions
   Proof and silver proof versions are sought after by collectors. These coins feature higher quality strikes and often include a mirror-like finish.
3. Check for Errors
   Error coins, such as those with doubling or misstrikes, can be worth significantly more than standard issues. Keep an eye out for these rare variants.
4. Storage and Preservation
   Protect your coins by storing them in airtight holders or coin flips to prevent damage or tarnishing over time.

Conclusion

The 2012-D Acadia National Park Quarter is a striking example of the artistry and historical significance of the America the Beautiful Quarters program. Whether you’re an avid collector or someone newly exploring the hobby, this coin is a worthwhile addition to your collection. Its connection to the natural beauty of Acadia National Park and its intricate design make it a standout piece. As the America the Beautiful Quarters series gains more recognition among numismatists, coins like the 2012-D Acadia Quarter may increase in value, especially in uncirculated or proof condition.

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