1997-P $1 Botanic Garden Silver Commem – Proof

The 1997-P $1 Botanic Garden Silver Commemorative Proof coin represents a fascinating intersection of American natural heritage and numismatic artistry. While the United States Botanic Garden celebrated its 175th anniversary in 1995, this commemorative silver dollar was issued in 1997 to honor this remarkable institution that has stood as a living museum on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol since 1820.

The history of the U.S. Botanic Garden stretches back to the early days of the republic, when it was officially established in 1820 and later re-established in 1842. As one of the oldest botanic gardens in North America, it has served as a sanctuary of natural beauty and botanical science in the heart of Washington, D.C. for over two centuries. By the mid-1990s, this national treasure required financial support for continued operations and preservation efforts.

In response to this need, the U.S. government authorized the production of these commemorative coins, with each sale generating a $10 surcharge directed toward the Botanic Garden's funding. This initiative represents a perfect example of how commemorative coinage has historically served dual purposes – celebrating American institutions while simultaneously providing tangible financial support for their continuation.

What makes this coin particularly noteworthy is the unusual timing of its release. While commemorative coins typically coincide with the anniversary they celebrate, the Botanic Garden Silver Dollar arrived two years after the actual 175th anniversary. Despite this timing peculiarity, the coin has become a cherished collector's item, capturing the dignity of the institution it honors.

With a limited mintage of fewer than 250,000 pieces across all varieties, the 1997-P Botanic Garden Silver Dollar has become increasingly difficult to acquire. Most examples have disappeared into private collections over the decades, making remaining specimens all the more valuable to serious numismatists and botanical enthusiasts alike.

Design Features

The obverse design, crafted by Edgar Z. Steever, presents the stately façade of the United States Botanic Garden building. The architectural representation captures the dignified presence of this historic structure, though notably without showcasing its impressive greenhouse or surrounding landscaping. The word "LIBERTY" graces the upper periphery, while "ONE DOLLAR" appears beneath the building, followed by "1997" and the "P" mintmark signifying its Philadelphia Mint origin. Completing the obverse design, "IN GOD WE TRUST" is positioned near the bottom, with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircling the lower edge.

The reverse, designed by William C. Cousins, features an elegant botanical theme that perfectly complements the coin's purpose. A large, detailed rose dominates the central field, symbolizing beauty and the natural splendor preserved within the Botanic Garden. This central rose is complemented by a decorative garland of roses and leaves that gracefully arcs across the upper half of the reverse. Below the rose, four lines of text read "UNITED STATES – BOTANIC GARDEN – 1820-1995 – E PLURIBUS UNUM," chronicling the institution's significant anniversary period.

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: Façade of the United States Botanic Garden with inscriptions "LIBERTY," "ONE DOLLAR," the date "1997," and "IN GOD WE TRUST."
• Reverse: A large rose with a garland of roses and leaves, featuring inscriptions "UNITED STATES – BOTANIC GARDEN – 1820-1995 – E PLURIBUS UNUM."

Investment Appeal

The 1997-P $1 Botanic Garden Silver Commemorative Proof coin offers several compelling advantages for collectors and investors alike. Composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, this coin contains 0.7734 ounces of pure silver, providing intrinsic precious metal value that serves as a foundation for its worth. Yet its true value extends far beyond its metal content.

With an original mintage limited to fewer than 190,000 proof specimens, this commemorative silver dollar has become increasingly scarce in today's market. The original issue price of $33-$37 has been surpassed by its current market value, demonstrating its appreciation potential. For serious collectors, specimens graded at the highest levels have achieved auction records of $710 for perfect PR70DCAM examples.

Beyond its financial aspects, this coin represents a tangible connection to American botanical heritage. The rose motif—a timeless symbol of love, beauty, and natural splendor—ensures enduring aesthetic appeal that transcends mere investment considerations. As both a piece of American minting history and a tribute to one of our nation's oldest scientific institutions, the 1997-P Botanic Garden Silver Dollar offers that rare combination of historical significance, artistic merit, and investment potential that defines truly exceptional commemorative coinage.