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Chickasaw National Park, last coin for 2011 in the "P"collectors series.
These large coins have 3 inch diameters and contain a full five ounces of .999 fine silver. Their thickness is only 0.16 inches with edge letterings that read .999 FINE SILVER 5.0 OUNCE. In order to scribe on the edges, the U.S. Mint had to purchase special machinery, and then several trial runs later were able to master the challenging feat.
The obverse and reverse designs are the same as the circulating Chickasaw National Recreation Area Quarter and include the QUARTER DOLLAR inscription. The circulating quarters were released last November.
The reverse of the uncirculated coin bears a design that was created by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) Master Designer Donna Weaver and engraved by United States Mint Medallic Sculptor Jim Licaretz. It features the popular 1909 limestone Lincoln Bridge nestled among the trees. The obverse design bears John Flanagan’s 1932 portrait of George Washington.
Making this numismatic piece a collectible are the special touches. Each uncirculated coin is given an uncirculated finish and the ‘P’ mint mark, denoting the United States Mint facility in Philadelphia. The packaging consists of the U.S. Mint’s logo on a black outer box with a black felt interior, holding the coin encapsulated in a hard, clear plastic protective holder. A Certificate of Authenticity is also included.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area Background
People have been flocking to the land now known as Chickasaw National Recreation Area for centuries to enjoy its mineral springs and streams amongst its shady woodlands. Some came to relax, others sought fun, and still more craved the water’s medicinal qualities. In an effort to save and preserve the water as well as the natural beauty in the area, the Chickasaw and Choctaw Indian Nations sold the first 640 acres to the Department of the Interior which led to its official establishment as a national site on July 1, 1902.
Thanks to many park development projects constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational and outdoor activities. Swimming, auto touring, and hiking are only a few.
Visit http://www.nps.gov/chic/index.htm for more information about the park.