The 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Quarter is part of the United States Mint’s America the Beautiful Quarters Program, which honors national parks and other national sites across the United States. This quarter, released in 2015, commemorates the Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” a scenic highway stretching across Virginia and North Carolina. For coin collectors, this quarter not only highlights the beauty of a major U.S. landmark but also serves as an attractive addition to their collection. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique coin.
Background of the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a designated national park stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands, linking the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Shenandoah National Park. Its picturesque landscapes are famed for their dramatic mountain views, valleys, and abundant wildlife. The parkway offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and travelers, making it an iconic American treasure. The 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway Quarter celebrates the park’s cultural and natural significance.
Coin Design and Features
The 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Quarter was designed by Joseph Menna and features a stunning portrayal of the park’s rolling hills and iconic mountain scenery. The design features a hiker standing on a rocky outcrop, looking out over the sweeping landscape, with the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background. The inscription on the coin reads:
- “Blue Ridge Parkway”
- “Virginia”
- “North Carolina”
- “2015”
Mint Mark and Release Information
The 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Quarter was struck at the Denver Mint, as indicated by the “D” mint mark on the coin’s obverse. This quarter was released into circulation in 2015 as part of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program, which began in 2010. Each year, five new quarters are issued, each honoring a different national park or historical site.
Mintage and Availability
The mintage figures for the 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway Quarter are significant, as the coin was released into regular circulation. However, the specific mintage numbers may vary depending on how many coins were struck for public release. Coins found in circulating condition are usually less valuable compared to those that have been preserved in mint state or higher grades.
Collectibility and Value
For collectors, the value of the 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway Quarter depends on its condition, rarity, and the presence of any notable error coins. Most quarters from this series are relatively affordable, with circulated coins fetching only their face value. However, high-quality coins graded MS65 or higher can fetch premium prices among collectors.
As with any coin, its long-term value will also be influenced by the demand for quarters from the America the Beautiful series and the availability of the coin in higher grades. With time, especially if the Blue Ridge Parkway remains a beloved American landmark, the value of these quarters may increase, especially for those in uncirculated or proof condition.
Why Collect the 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway Quarter?
- Historical Significance: The quarter is part of the broader initiative to honor America’s national parks and significant sites.
- Beautiful Design: The stunning design captures the essence of the Blue Ridge Parkway, making it an aesthetically appealing coin for collectors.
- Investment Potential: While circulated versions may not hold significant monetary value, uncirculated and high-grade coins can become more valuable over time.
Conclusion
The 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Quarter is not only a tribute to one of America’s most scenic and iconic national parks but also an appealing piece for collectors of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program. Whether you are an experienced numismatist or a novice, this quarter offers a great way to engage with U.S. history and the beauty of America’s national treasures. Whether you collect it for its design, history, or investment potential, the Blue Ridge Parkway quarter is a meaningful addition to any collection.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway Quarter?
The quarter commemorates the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway through Virginia and North Carolina, and is part of the America the Beautiful Quarters Program.
2. Where can I buy the 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway Quarter?
You can purchase the quarter through the U.S. Mint, in coin rolls, or in uncirculated and proof sets. It can also be found in circulation at banks and coin shops.
3. How much is the 2015-D Blue Ridge Parkway Quarter worth?
Circulated versions of the quarter are worth their face value of 25 cents, but higher-grade uncirculated or proof versions can fetch more among collectors, especially those graded MS65 or higher.