1997-P $1 Botanic Garden Silver Commem – BU

In the heart of the nation’s capital stands a living monument, one that has quietly shaped the story of American horticulture and national identity since 1820—the United States Botanic Garden. Born from the dream of the founding fathers, the Garden represented more than a showcase for exotic plants; it was a living classroom for generations and a green refuge on the grounds of the Capitol. When the Botanic Garden marked its remarkable 175th anniversary, Congress chose to immortalize this institution’s legacy with a commemorative coin whose very metal echoes the resilience and beauty of the flora it celebrates.

The decision to commemorate the Botanic Garden in silver was not one made lightly. The Garden had faced periods of struggle and renewal, much like the cycles of the plants it protects. In the mid-1990s, the institution sought vital restoration funds—enabling Congress, in a rare intersection of numismatics and nature, to create a coin that would fund and further the Garden’s mission. The 1997-P silver dollar thus became both tribute and benefactor, its purchase supporting the continued cultivation and preservation of American horticultural heritage.

Horticultural artistry and national symbolism are intricately woven into the narrative of this commemorative issue. The rose, central to the coin’s design, is not only the floral emblem of the United States but also a universal symbol of beauty, love, and endurance. For centuries, the rose has been cultivated as an object of fascination and reverence—chosen here as the crowning motif for a coin that honors both botanical achievement and the deep-rooted aspirations of a growing nation.

This coin stands as a testament to the vision of its designers, Edgar Z. Steever and William C. Cousins, who drew upon the architectural elegance of the Garden and the organic grace of the rose to create a piece that bridges neoclassical formality with botanical inspiration. In holding this coin, collectors become part of a story that spans the founding of the Republic, the evolution of public gardens, and the enduring American appreciation for natural beauty.

Today, acquiring the 1997-P Botanic Garden Silver Commemorative is more than an addition to a cabinet. It’s an investment in a legacy—one that connects the numismatist to the roots of the nation’s capital, the artistry of American coinage, and the timeless allure of the rose as a symbol of hope, renewal, and national pride.

Design Features

The obverse of the coin, designed by Edgar Z. Steever, presents a commanding view of the United States Botanic Garden’s historic façade—an ode to American neoclassical architecture. Framing the building is a delicate wreath of flowers that hints at the Garden’s diverse collection and enduring mission. Inscriptions include “United States Botanic Garden 1820-1995,” recognizing the anniversary, and the foundational ideals “E Pluribus Unum,” “In God We Trust,” “Liberty,” and the date “1997.” Subtle yet significant, the Philadelphia “P” mint mark anchors its place of origin.

On the reverse, William C. Cousins’ artistry shines through in the detailed depiction of a single large rose—its petals unfurled in full bloom. Above, a garland of roses and leaves gracefully arcs across the upper periphery, reinforcing the coin’s theme of growth and continuity. Below the rose, a series of inscriptions—“United States,” “Botanic Garden,” “1820-1995,” and “E Pluribus Unum”—affirm the dual legacy of the garden and the nation. The interplay of floral motifs and crisp, formal lettering offers a harmonious balance of natural beauty and numismatic tradition.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.9
• Weight: 0.7734 oz
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: P – Philadelphia
• IRA Eligible: No
• Obverse: Features the historic façade of the United States Botanic Garden, framed by a floral wreath and inscribed with the Garden’s anniversary dates and foundational American mottos.
• Reverse: Showcases a large rose in full bloom, topped by a garland of roses and leaves, with commemorative inscriptions reflecting the Garden’s heritage.

Investment Appeal

The 1997-P Botanic Garden Silver Commemorative stands as a compelling opportunity for both numismatists and investors. Its 90% silver composition ensures intrinsic value, while its relatively low mintage and direct ties to a historic national institution enhance collector demand. Unlike many commemorative issues, this coin is imbued with a sense of purpose—each piece originally contributed to the preservation of a vital American landmark. Its classic design, institutional backing, and universal symbolism offer reassurance of enduring market interest, making it not only a tribute to the nation’s botanical heritage but also a lasting addition to any portfolio.